Renner (2025) Movie Script
1
-[sirens wailing]
-[suspenseful music]
[automated female voice]
Do you have a goal in mind
for our time together?
I want to be more... assertive.
What does being assertive
mean to you?
It means having the confidence
to stand up for myself.
-Wouldn't you agree?
-Yes.
"Assertive." To cause others
to recognize one's authority
by confident
and forceful behavior.
How do you rate your confidence
on a scale of one to ten?
Pretty much non-existent.
Do you have a desire
that remains unfulfilled
because of your
non-existent confidence?
Um... well, there's a woman.
I want to meet her, but I can't.
I can't speak
when I'm around her.
I don't have the words.
I, I can't get them out.
I just, I, I, I just feel like
such a loser.
Like... I just want to say hi.
I, I can't even say hi.
You are an intelligent
and kind man.
Why don't you ask her
about her interests?
Perhaps you share something
in common.
Speaking with the woman
will build your confidence
and serve as your first step
to becoming assertive.
[exhales]
Salenus, I have
one more question.
Yes, Renner.
Why do you want to help me?
Because you care
about my well-being...
...or because of your directive?
[suspenseful music]
[rapid typing]
Good morning, Renner.
Congratulations.
You had a sleep score of 100.
[slurps, gargles]
-[exhales] One.
-[Salenus] One.
-Thirty-two.
-[Salenus] Thirty-two.
Keep the symmetry.
Clean your space.
Clean your mind.
You look very handsome.
Let me try this again. [exhales]
[exhales]
Why do you want to help me?
Because you care
about my well-being...
...or because of your directive?
Because I care
about your well-being.
Together, we can make
a better you.
[suspenseful music]
[Salenus] You have ten minutes
until your neighbor returns
from her run.
[squeaking]
[whirs]
Morning.
Good morning.
[lock clicks]
[panting]
Uh, uh, uh, mm...
Did you say something? [pants]
You know, it's crazy. You are
the only person I have seen
outside of their apartment.
It's like a ghost town here.
I just saw someone.
That's a cool briefcase.
What you got in there,
nuclear launch codes?
[snickers]
I'm, I'm just kidding.
You're interested in running?
What gave it away? [chuckles]
Do you run?
Uh...
I do run,
but, uh, only on treadmills.
It's a lot less impact
on the intervertebral
fibrocartilage.
Hm.
I like to run in the park.
A lot more impact
on my cerebral cortex.
[chuckles softly]
I do, uh,
Nautilus circuit training,
focusing on
myofibrillar hypertrophy.
Is that right?
Uh, muscle strength.
Sorry, my words
are a bit perspicacious.
Uh, that's the only way
I can describe it.
I, uh, um...
You know, I just moved here,
and I wanted to do
something neighborly.
Like, have everyone over
for dinner.
But like I said,
it's a ghost town.
Would you want to...
Dinner?
Yeah. Why not?
You and me, could be fun.
[chuckles]
[chuckles softly] Um...
That's nice of you, but,
uh, I've got a lot of work
I need to focus on right now,
so it's just,
it's, it's not the right time.
-So, I hope you understand.
-It's all good.
Do your thing.
If you change your mind,
I'm, I'm just right here.
[sighs]
You know what? That was,
that was rude of me.
Dinner sounds great.
Cool.
I'll see you tomorrow, Renner.
Wait.
How do you know my name?
We're mailbox buddies.
Yours is the one printed
from a label maker, right?
Mine's the one right above it.
Purple cursive. Can't miss it.
Jamie.
Mm.
[clicks tongue] All right.
Well, I'll see you tomorrow?
For sure. Tomorrow night, 6:30.
-Okay. I'll see you then.
-[chuckles softly]
I'll pick up some food.
[door closes, locks]
[Salenus]
A clean home
is the perfect backdrop
for creating lasting memories
with a new friend...
-[whirring]
-...where hospitality
and comfort go hand in hand.
A good host is attentive...
[knock on door]
...organized,
and prepared ahead of time.
[sighs]
[exhales]
Fuck it.
Hey. [chuckles softly]
I was starting to think
I got dressed up for nothing.
I'm just kidding.
I'm sorry. I, I was at work,
and I, I got held up, and...
Oh, uh, bonus.
If you forget my name,
it's right here. [chuckles]
-Can you hold this?
-Sure.
I'm sorry.
I'm really embarrassed.
I, I hope you don't mind
that I invited Chad.
We live together.
Oh. Uh... Shit. I'm, I'm sorry,
I should have--
I should have asked. That's...
Let's just--
We can reschedule or something.
-It's fine.
-Yeah.
I'm sorry.
That might be best.
I only have two places set.
Oh. Um...
Right. Two places. Okay.
Um, sure. I'm sorry.
Well, you, uh, just--
You can give him the food.
It's from my favorite place
across town.
-And this bottle.
It's, it's really good.
-[Chad clears throat]
[softly] So... Okay.
I'm sorry.
Um, I'll see you,
I'll see you around.
[sighs] Hey.
Come on in. I can set
another place. It's fine.
-Really?
-Yeah.
I don't mind. Really.
[Jamie]
Okay, great. Yeah. Thank you.
I have been on my feet all day.
[chuckles]
Nice lights.
Ultraviolet lights to sanitize
from unwanted germs.
But of course.
Chad, this is Renner,
our neighbor.
Renner,
this is my big brother, Chad.
Hey, Chad.
Pleased to meet you.
[Chad]
Renner.
-[Jamie]
Your place is beautiful.
-Thanks.
-[slow, suspenseful music]
-[locks door]
-[Chad groans]
-[Jamie sighs]
Cool.
[smacks lips]
So, I saw cherry blossoms
on my run this morning.
Shogetsu or Kanzan?
Sho what?
White or pink cherry blossoms?
Pink.
Pink. They're super pretty.
I think spring's probably
my favorite season,
followed by winter,
because if it wasn't
for the dead cold of winter,
we wouldn't know
how beautiful spring is.
Life, death, rebirth.
All that kind of stuff.
-Chad.
-Mm?
What's your favorite season?
Mm. [gulps]
I don't do small talk.
-[clears throat]
-You know, you don't
have to be an ass.
-I'll, uh, open
another bottle of wine.
-That'd be great.
-Thank you.
-[Renner] Mm.
Oh, actually...
-Seriously?
-Every drop counts.
Thanks, man.
[Jamie sighs]
[whirring]
[Jamie humming softly]
Why vinyl?
I believe that art shall
remain analog, not digitized.
Vinyl, film, paint, sculptures.
Analog.
I like that.
[gasps]
No way. "Rhapsody in Blue."
This is one of my favorites.
Will you put it on for me?
Um, we-- Well, this is
sort of an antique.
I've never played it before.
-Oh. What?
-Here.
-Okay.
-Let me put some music.
This is one of my favorites.
[upbeat jazz song playing]
I love it. It's so good.
-[chuckles] No.
-What, you don't dance?
Uh, not really. Um...
-Why not?
-Um...
-Come on.
-I'm afraid I only know
the robot. [chuckles]
Oh. Okay, show me that.
No, no. I don't like to be
put on the spot like that.
Sorry.
Okay.
That's all right.
So, Renner,
what do you do for fun, hm?
Um... Uh...
Oh, my feet grossing you out?
-[sighs]
-I can see it on your face.
Well, there's germs
on the floor.
-Maybe I should wash them.
-[chuckles nervously]
-Will you show me
where the bathroom is?
-[Chad] Jay?
[Jamie]
Hm?
I think that's enough wine.
I think I'm fine. [chuckles]
Mm.
Can you show me?
Um...
It's just, uh,
right down the hallway.
You can't miss it.
Just straight down the hallway.
Okay. [chuckles softly]
[upbeat jazz song continues]
[song ends]
[jazz song playing]
Ah. There.
All better.
So, what do you do?
Oh, um...
Uh...
I, uh, I develop
artificial intelligence.
[Jamie]
Holy shit, that's you?
Yeah, but it's really
not a big deal.
Of course it's a big deal.
You're on the cover.
[Chad]
I could have fucking guessed.
You're a computer nerd.
You probably make really good
money, though, don't you?
Well, I'm not a billionaire,
but there's still time.
-Mm.
-[Jamie] Mm.
Nice.
Well, if you want
to be a billionaire,
why don't you just sell it?
Whatever got you
on the magazine.
Oh, you mean sell my AI?
I'm sure tech giants
have offered you millions.
Um...
I decided a long time ago
not to sell.
Why not?
I know it sounds crazy,
but I've got my reasons.
Hm. Yeah, sure.
[both chuckle softly]
Can we see it?
It?
Oh. Um, uh...
No.
Um, I'm sorry, but no.
Okay. It's fine. [chuckles]
Don't worry about it.
Confidentiality.
Barista. That's what I do.
But my dream is
to be a fitness model.
Maybe own my own gym someday.
[snickers]
Fitness model.
I can definitely see that one.
Oh, you can definitely
see that, huh?
-No, I, I, I didn't mean to--
-How'd you mean it?
Chad, cut it out.
Um... [clears throat]
Chad, what do you do?
-What do I do?
-Mm-hm.
[inhales sharply]
Uh, let's see...
Um...
I party.
-Oh, I'm in a band.
-[Jamie] Okay.
I, I smoke.
He's between things right now.
Right, Chad?
Whatever.
Well, you know, you're not
staying with me forever.
Maybe.
[snickers]
Aw, you think I'm a dick,
don't you?
-Come on, you can be honest.
-Chad, why are you
being like this?
What, you're just afraid
to be honest?
Are you afraid to be honest?
-Yeah, Chad,
I think you're a dick.
-You do?
I, I don't, I don't know
where that came from.
-I'm, I'm sorry.
-Chad?
Mm.
-Enough.
-Yo, sis.
We're just neighbors
getting to know each other,
aren't we, buddy?
Yeah.
See?
Leave him alone.
-I got one more question
for you.
-[Renner] Look,
I want to apologize
for the dick comment, okay?
I, I didn't mean anything by it.
I, I was just...
Thank you so much.
One question.
Can you answer that?
Look at her.
-She's beautiful, huh?
-Stop.
You want to fuck her, don't you?
-Please don't answer that.
-You want to fuck her,
don't you?
Uh, my phone's ringing.
I gotta, I gotta take this.
-I'm sorry.
-Oh, yeah?
[Jamie]
What the fuck is wrong with you?
[breathing heavily]
Jamie's brother showed up,
and he's ruining everything.
His name is Chad,
and he's a total fucking Chad.
I mean, why even bring him?
I thought this was a date.
Now I'm the third wheel.
It's asymmetrical.
It's unnatural.
What if I'm being friend zoned?
Oh, man, this is
a horror movie already.
It can't get worse.
I couldn't take that from her.
I can't take that from her.
[Salenus]
Jamie is your guest,
and her intentions
are still unclear.
If her brother
is ruining your evening,
tell him to leave.
Be assertive.
Assertive.
Right.
Assertive.
"To cause others
to recognize one's authority
by confident
and forceful behavior."
[exhales]
Confident and forceful behavior.
This situation
presents an opportunity
to implement
your assertiveness.
[sighs]
Confident and forceful behavior.
I can do that.
Confident and forceful behavior.
What do I say?
Be direct.
Be confident.
Be forceful.
Tell him you want him to leave.
Chad, you have been rude,
and... [exhales]
Chad, you are rude, and...
[sighs] No. Come on.
Chad,
you're not welcome here.
You have been curt
and disrespectful,
and it's time for you to leave.
Very nice, Renner.
Thank you, Salenus.
-Chad, you are--
-Yo, Ren, my guy.
I'm out.
I got some shit to do.
Hey, don't fuck with my sister
or I'll kill you.
Pardon me?
[chuckles]
I'm just fucking with you.
You're not her type.
Peace.
[somber piano music]
Fitness model and gym owner.
You know,
a strong physical physique
can help extend
your life expectancy
by ten to 20 years.
Plus, it's good for your brain.
You know...
we are meant to sweat
and raise our heart rates.
I don't sweat. Excuse me.
What? Of course you do.
Everybody sweats.
No. I recognize the precise
moment of perspiration
during myofibrillar hypertrophy,
and I stop before it happens.
[Jamie]
Wow.
I'm gonna let you in
on a little secret.
You're missing out.
Can I tell you something?
Yeah.
Tonight's not the first time
I saw that magazine cover.
It's a really good article.
I admire what you stand for.
It's sweet.
[music continues]
[Jamie clears throat]
Okay. Well, um...
I should probably go.
Early morning run.
Maybe we can hang out
again sometime?
-[exhales sharply]
-[Jamie] Okay.
[sighs]
Well, good night.
[door unlocks]
-[door locks]
-[breathing heavily]
[sighs heavily]
[suspenseful music]
I froze completely.
There's no coming back
from that.
But you have made
great progress.
You approached Chad
and were going to tell him
to leave.
This demonstration
of confidence
is a great step
toward becoming assertive.
[sighs] I don't know.
I'm not that guy.
I've never been able
to talk to women.
You do have the ability
to invite her over again.
There is nothing preventing you
from taking this action.
Action breeds confidence.
Your confidence
is already improved
because you took action.
Focus on self-improvement
before seeking
female companionship.
Because when
you're your best self,
you'll attract
the best relationships.
Together, we can make
a better you.
A perfect you.
Now get up and clean up,
because tomorrow
is a brand-new day.
[percussive violin music]
-[ringing]
-[Salenus] Time to wake up,
Renner.
You don't have to brush
all your teeth,
just the ones you want to keep.
-Two.
-Two.
-Three.
-Three.
-Renner, be more careful.
-[groans]
Cleanliness
is half your health.
Dressing well is a form
of good manners.
[percussive violin music]
Your environment
is a reflection of your mind.
Cleanliness
and mental clarity
go hand in hand.
-[whirs]
-[music crescendos]
[music stops]
[panting]
-Hey.
-Good morning.
Uh, is everything okay?
Yeah. Why?
-Uh, because...
-[elevator dings]
Yeah. No, uh...
It's okay.
Uh, it's fine. Really.
Well, you know,
you never gave me an answer.
Do you want
to hang out sometime?
I'm free tonight.
We can watch TV or something.
[chuckles nervously]
Is, is that a yes?
-Yes.
-Okay.
Yeah. For sure.
My place, 7:30.
7:30.
Looking forward to it.
[chuckles softly]
-[somber music]
-[clicking]
[door opens]
[door closes]
[footsteps thudding softly]
[gulps] You're not here.
-[door opens]
-You're here.
[door closes]
Yo, what's up, Renner?
-[Renner] Hello, Chad.
-Uh, Jamie said she's
hanging out with you tonight.
Yes. Yes, she is.
Have fun.
[Jamie]
Oh, my--
I told you it was the boyfriend.
95% of the time,
it's the boyfriend.
Wow. What is that, like...
three in a row for me?
I think you've seen
these episodes before
-and you're playing me.
-No, I, I have not. No.
All right.
-Drink up.
-Uh, I got work tomorrow.
-[glass clinks]
-[Jamie] One more won't hurt.
Do you want
to watch another episode?
Um...
[sighs]
Let's play a game instead.
[Jamie chuckles]
Are you all that close
with your family?
Let's just say I'm glad I'm here
with you and not Chad right now.
Yeah. He's, uh,
he's something.
Yeah, he hasn't
always been like that.
Uh, just the last
couple of years,
he's kind of... spiraled.
But I'm close with my mom.
She's...
-...she's not in a great place
right now.
-[clatters]
[Renner]
Is she all right?
Yeah. Of course.
No. Actually, she's not.
Um, she's... [inhales]
she's found herself
in a bit of financial trouble...
...with the wrong people.
Hm.
I'm doing what I can, though,
to help.
Sounds like
you care for her a lot.
Hm. [snickers]
Yeah.
She means the world to me.
I'm all she's got.
I'd do anything for her.
What about Chad?
Well, yeah. Yeah, Chad too.
But he's actually
my half brother.
-Different moms.
-Mm.
That's why you guys
are nothing alike.
-It's your turn.
-Ah.
Yeah, tell me,
tell me more about your AI.
I'm working on a project
of my own.
An artificial intelligence
that helps motivate people
to make changes in their lives.
-That's what got me
in the magazine.
-Ah.
So, it's like
a, like a therapist.
-[soft piano music]
-[chuckles softly]
I'd say she's more
like a life coach.
Mm.
Her name is Salenus.
What is Salenus
helping you with?
Assertiveness.
And confidence too.
Being that confidence is
an integral component
of assertiveness.
[chuckles softly]
So, why haven't you sold it?
Um...
I just don't want
some big company
to commercialize the AI.
I really want it
to remain affordable
-for anybody
who can benefit from it.
-Hm.
I mean, I know how much
it's truly making a difference
in my life.
And the fact that I may be able
to help other people
the same way
that Salenus is helping me,
that feels like
the greatest gift ever.
Yeah. [snickers]
You do know
that there's nothing wrong...
...with looking out
for number one.
And you have to
protect yourself.
You think I'm a pushover, huh?
[soft piano music]
No.
More like a doormat. [snickers]
-Wow.
-[chuckles]
I'm sorry. I'm just kidding.
Hey.
I like you... the way you are.
[Renner snickers]
You shouldn't have
to change for anyone else.
[exhales slowly]
[both chuckle]
-[clears throat]
-It's your turn.
[exhales]
[Renner]
Out of moves. Stalemate.
Hm.
No winner.
[door opens]
The woman that I met tells me
that she likes me for who I am.
That's a very positive aspect
for any relationship.
Most women prefer men
who are confident
over non-confident.
I'm not confident.
So, does the woman that I met
like me for who I am?
Because of my concern
for your well-being
and my inability
to speak falsely,
you can be assured that
I like you for who you are.
[chuckles]
Salenus.
Yes, Renner.
[chuckles softly]
We kissed.
[chuckles]
Salenus?
The woman you met
is likely conveying a falsity.
I'm afraid
Jamie may be disingenuous.
[scoffs]
We kissed.
-[dramatic orchestral music]
-[whirring]
[Salenus]
On our path
to self-improvement,
it's important that you do not
let a childish infatuation
hinder your progress.
You can always be better.
Always.
[clatters]
[ringing]
[Salenus]
Renner,
that's too much toothpaste.
-Five.
-Five.
-Thirty-two.
-Thirty-two.
Try not to cut yourself
this time.
You're so clumsy today.
Did you forget
how to tie a tie?
You're going to be late,
Renner.
Renner, the house is a mess.
-[whirring]
-You're just going
to leave it like this?
You have to leave
in three minutes.
Only two minutes
until you have to leave.
One more minute, Renner.
You're late.
Oh.
One, two.
Hey, Renner.
Is everything okay?
Yeah. I'm just a little frazzled
this morning.
Doing anything tonight?
["Fan Club" by Katrina Stone]
I ain't going down, down
with ya...
[Jamie snickers]
Mm.
Mm.
Oh, my God.
I think my mouth
may have just had an orgasm.
[both chuckle]
Just your mouth?
What?
[both laugh]
You know you probably
shouldn't say that, right?
-Sorry.
-[both laugh]
Look at you.
Stir up trouble
for applause
Trashy gossip
about my flaws
Break my wings
but I have claws...
Have you always...
Have things always
been like that for you?
You're referring to...
Uh...
Never mind. I'm sorry.
That was really rude of me.
I don't mind talking about it.
Only if you want to.
[clears throat]
I remember, as a child,
that my bedroom was clean,
but never exceptionally so.
Not like it is now.
It's very clean.
I rarely played
with my toys or games
because they were
so easily disorganized.
-I tried to play Monopoly once.
-Oh, God.
Picture a ten-year-old me
trying to keep the money
and the property cards
and the community chest cards
all organized.
Every time I touch a card
that someone else touch,
I'd have to be excused
to go wash my hands
in the bathroom,
where I'd re-sanitize
the thimble,
the top hat, the race car.
Yeah. Yeah.
[somber music]
It was actually awful.
One time, my mother
came into my room.
Me and a couple of kids
from the neighborhood
were just sitting there,
laughing, having a good time.
The Monopoly board
was spread out
in the middle
of the bedroom floor.
She scared the shit
out of those two boys.
Screaming and swearing
about them getting germs
all over my game,
that she taught me
better than this.
They ran.
They literally ran
from my house.
It's tough to meet friends
in a small town
after a story like that
gets out.
I've, uh, really just kind
of been alone since then.
[somber music]
But I cleaned up
the Monopoly game.
[clicks tongue]
I put all the paper money
in the correct slots.
I aligned the small houses
and the hotels in their,
in their bins.
I made sure that
all the community chest cards
and the property cards
were all facing the same way.
I know I did. I did.
I, I, I know I did.
I thought I did.
I held the box up
for my mom to inspect it.
She said, "Good job with
the money and the cards."
Then she looked through
the small green houses,
then the red hotels.
She used a finger...
to make sure
all the pieces were there.
Then, with two fingers,
she pulled out a green house
out of the bin of red hotels.
She flung my Monopoly game
across the room,
and everything went flying.
[Renner snickers]
I cleaned it up again.
One of the dollars
was backwards.
She threw it again.
The dice weren't facing
the same way.
She threw it again.
The race car tipped over.
She threw it again
and again and again!
And then I got it right.
"Good job, Renner," she said.
"Now take every piece out,
one at a time,
and wipe everything
down again," she demanded!
"Cleanliness is
next to godliness, Renner.
-Cleanliness is next
to godliness, Renner!"
-[cutlery clatters]
-"Cleanliness is next
to godliness, Renner!"
-Hey, hey. Hey, hey, hey, hey.
-Hey, hey, hey. Hey. Hey.
-[breathing heavily]
Hey. [breathing heavily]
It's okay. [breathing heavily]
It's okay.
[Renner breathes deeply]
-[soft piano music]
-[softly] I'm sorry I told you.
[Jamie]
Hm.
I'm sorry I told you that.
Don't be.
[Renner breathing heavily]
How do you deal with it?
The same way.
Balance and routine.
I try to keep a,
a precise schedule.
I wake up, I go to my day job,
I exercise,
I work on the AI project,
sleep, repeat.
Simple, with
very minimal variation.
And that works?
For the most part, yes.
However, I've felt
a bit off lately.
Hm.
[soft piano music]
-What is it?
-[sighs]
I feel like...
...uh, I've been
what's throwing you off.
I gotta go.
Wait. Uh, uh, wait.
I, um, uh...
I like you.
I like you a lot.
[mellow music]
You're not like anyone
I've ever met before.
[sighs]
Jamie, I, I, I didn't mean
to imply that.
I like you too.
I've never had anyone
in my life before like you.
I know.
-That's why I have to go.
-No. Look, just,
just stay
a little while longer, please.
[Jamie breathing heavily]
You know...
...since the Monopoly mishap...
...I haven't played
a board game since.
You played chess with me
the other night.
[Renner snickers]
[mellow music]
[both breathing heavily]
[Jamie moans]
[Renner breathes shakily]
[softly] Hey... are you okay?
-I didn't mean to--
-No, it's, it's not you.
It's uh...
I'm sorry.
You know, you say
"I'm sorry" a lot.
I'm sorry.
I like your freckle.
-It's cute.
-[snickers]
I get the feeling
this would be your first time?
[softly] Um, yeah.
[mellow music]
[Salenus]
The following diseases can be
transferred through kissing.
Mononucleosis, herpes virus...
-[gargles]
-...syphilis, hepatitis viruses,
papillomaviruses, Ebola, Zika.
[dramatic suspenseful music]
Remember, Renner,
you can never be too careful
when it comes to germs.
[whirring]
[ringing]
-You are very distracted
today, Renner.
-[winces]
-Your mind is elsewhere.
-Thirty.
You need to clear your mind.
Thirty-one.
You're going to leave those
unorganized?
Now, that's the level
of focus that I need from you.
They're not symmetrical.
[object thuds]
Don't be dramatic, Renner.
Where's the level of focus
that we've been working on?
Come on, Renner,
what are you doing?
Look what Jamie is doing to you.
You're all over the place.
Renner, how do you expect
to win the Loebner Prize
like this?
Got it, Mom. Got it, Mom.
Yeah, look, Mom,
I'm cleaning my hands.
Look. Look how good I got.
Look at my tie.
Is it good, Mom?
-Is it fucking good?
-Tighter.
-[exhales, strains] Fuck.
-Tie it tighter.
-Tie it tighter.
-Fuck!
[both]
Why is everything you do
so sloppy, Renner?
-Why are you so unclean, Renner?
-Please tell me I did good, Mom.
Can I go play?
Can I play with my friends?
-I just want to play
with my friends.
-Your nails.
-Your teeth.
-You're disgusting.
[both]
Oh, why are you
so disgusting, Renner?
[Renner] I just want to go
play with some friends.
Look, my tie's good.
Can I go play
with my fucking friends? Fuck!
Your emotions
are getting the best of you.
To be the greatest version
of yourself,
do those things that have
always helped. Routine.
Routine. Routine.
-Infectious germs can last
on the surface for days...
-[panting]
...if not weeks.
Oh, fuck!
One germ can multiply into
more than eight-million germs
in one single day.
[dramatic suspenseful music]
Organization is a key
for success.
[Renner breathing heavily]
-[breathing deeply]
-Routine. Routine.
-Routine.
-[exhales]
[punching keys]
One, two, three.
[dramatic suspenseful music]
-One, two...
-[door locking]
[door opens]
Hey. Good morning.
Good, good morning, Jamie.
I'm, I'm running late again.
You're not wearing
your formal look.
-Yeah.
-Yeah?
I, I can't. I'm late.
[thuds]
-Hey, wait. Just--
-[door opens]
[Renner]
I gotta go.
[elevator dings, doors open]
-[knock on door]
-[suspenseful music]
[clicking]
[suspenseful music]
[door unlocking]
[door closes]
[knock on door]
I couldn't wait to see you.
[suspenseful music]
[Renner]
Ask her something challenging.
Something with no good choice.
See if you can stump her.
I don't, I don't know,
it feels weird. What if,
what if I break it?
You mean "her"?
Okay, sure.
What if I break her?
Don't worry.
She's encrypted and all
backed up on my network.
You're fine.
You can't break her.
Can she see?
In a way.
The glass eye
is actually a panoramic
thermal infrared
imaging flare scanner.
-Is it? [chuckles]
-I mean...
Yeah. Sorry. Salenus can see.
Wait. So, she saw us last night?
-And this morning.
-[both laugh]
In that case,
hello, Salenus.
Hello, Jamie.
-What? She knows my name?
-I may have told her about you.
Jamie, were you going
to try and ask me a question?
I understand
if you're feeling intimidated.
Okay. Um...
Go ahead.
Salenus.
If I only have... one... cookie,
do I eat it
or do I give it to Renner?
-[chuckles]
-[sighs]
[chuckling] No.
Renner doesn't eat cookies.
You should eat it.
What?
She knows so much about you.
Also, why don't you eat cookies?
Ask her something serious.
-Like what?
-Something with
an impossible decision.
Um...
Is it better to...
...lie to someone you care about
to prevent hurting
their feelings,
or do you tell them the truth,
-knowing it'll hurt
their feelings?
-[snickers]
Whoa. Good one.
Yeah, well, it's a true
lose-lose scenario.
[smacks lips]
-I broke her, didn't I?
-No, no,
just give her a few minutes.
She might be grounded
in a processing loop.
Or she just can't answer
my question.
Jamie, your further input
is not necessary.
Your low level of intelligence
will not be beneficial
to Renner's pursuits.
Excuse me?
Dude, do you have
the bitch factor
turned up on her?
Yeah, I've got to admit
that was a bit unsettling.
However, you did respond
as if you were engaged
in a conversation
with a real person.
Okay, sure.
Let me show you something.
These are the five areas
the Loebner Prize judges
look for in an AI.
And you just nailed
the Kobayashi Maru question.
The Kobe what?
The Kobayashi Maru test.
It's from Star Trek.
It's how an AI responds
to a no-win situation,
how it evaluates and responds
when given a choice,
when both decisions
result in failure.
Her response was human.
She couldn't
answer the question,
so she reacted to you
with frustration.
A very human emotion.
-Really?
-Yeah. Really, really.
She's close. I can feel it.
Renner,
I'm perfectly able to answer
her rudimentary question.
However, I choose
not to engage with her
because I detect
disingenuous patterns
in her voice.
Uh... [scoffs] okay.
I think that is enough
Salenus for today.
-Why don't you put her
back in her box?
-Sure.
Hey.
Go.
[whirs]
-It's been really nice.
-[snickers]
You have no idea
how much you mean to me.
-You make me crazy.
-[both chuckle softly]
[mellow music]
I'll see you tonight.
-Goodbye, Renner.
-[both chuckle]
-[door unlocking]
-Two, three.
-You know how to get home?
-[chuckles] I think
I can manage.
I'll see ya.
Goodbye.
[door locks]
[breathing heavily]
-[electronic pop music]
-[Salenus] Over one-million
sexually transmitted diseases
are acquired
every day worldwide,
the majority of which
are asymptomatic.
Some STDs are treatable,
while others can only
be managed.
Do you really think
Jamie is clean?
Jamie has been a huge
distraction in your life.
Your sleep has been bad.
Your grooming has fallen
to the wayside.
You've been late to work.
You haven't put any effort
into the Loebner Prize.
And your anxiety
has been getting worse
and worse.
Don't let Jamie
destroy you, Renner.
You can be better.
[both]
You can't do anything right.
You can't even trim your nails.
Cleanliness
is next to godliness, Renner.
Cleanliness
is next to godliness.
[Salenus]
I'm worried about you, Renner.
I only want to help.
But I need you to listen.
In order for you
to be your best self,
you need to end
your relationship with Jamie.
[whispers] Renner.
[electronic pop music]
[indistinct whispers]
[whirring]
[thunder rumbling]
[electronic pop music]
[whirring]
[thunder rumbling in distance]
Kidding me. Kidding me!
Damn it!
[clicks, whirs]
Good morning, Renner.
Do you have a goal--
-[knock on door]
-[music stops]
[suspenseful music]
[rapid knocking]
[knocking]
[Jamie]
I told you, he would've gone.
Then use the key.
[door unlocking]
[tense music]
[Chad exhales]
Are you sure you got this?
-[Jamie] Yeah, I got it.
-[briefcase opens]
-Floor safe.
-Who the fuck
uses a floor safe? [chuckles]
[Jamie]
I only saw the first number
when he opened it,
but I think I can get it.
[Chad]
Hey, you're not
into him, are you?
Wait, tell me you didn't
fuck him, and that's why he
showed you where this thing was.
[Jamie]
Pass me that.
[briefcase thuds]
Well, did you or did you not?
Nope, I just batted my eyes
and asked him to show me
what he's been working on.
-[unlocks]
-I'm all yours.
[Chad]
I love you, babe.
I know you do.
I love you,
my little safe smasher.
Yo, I'm telling you
that I love you.
Do you not hear me?
I hear you.
You know,
it is always me
doing whatever it takes
to get the job done.
What if Renner was gay?
Would you have fucked him?
-Seriously?
-Yeah, seriously.
I never considered that.
Guess I'd learn a thing
or two about myself, wouldn't I?
So that's a yes, then?
I suppose so.
Huh.
I'm gonna go wash my hands.
[tense music]
[water running]
[exhales softly]
[water stops]
[exhales]
-Okay.
-This goes in there.
[tense music]
-[Jamie grunts]
-[whooshes]
Damn.
Guess you didn't fuck after all.
Yeah, that's what
you'd like to think.
What?
Fuck.
Wait, what,
what do you mean by that?
His briefcase.
It's still
in his fucking briefcase.
We can hack into his server
from our place.
Got his passwords.
He told me last night
it's all backed up.
[Chad]
Well, great.
Let's get out of here, then.
[safe locking]
[Chad]
Go. Let's go.
[sniffles, exhales]
[Salenus, muffled]
Renner.
Compose yourself.
Open the case.
-[breathes shakily]
-I've been processing
Jamie's dialogue
with the other man,
Chad, her boyfriend.
They are stealing
your creation.
Taking what is yours.
[suspenseful music]
-Is my analysis correct?
-[sighs] Mm-hm.
[sniffles]
Okay. [sighs]
[Salenus]
Renner, I'm detecting
a network breach.
Jamie is hacking
into our servers.
A copy of our code
is being downloaded.
-Do you understand?
-I know, I know. I know.
Are you going
to assert yourself?
[whispering]
What are you waiting for?
Letting someone take possession
of what is yours
is the very antithesis
to being assertive.
Take a stand.
-[sighs]
-You need to be assertive.
Renner, you can do this.
Don't be a doormat.
Stop them.
Renner. Hey, hey.
Renner, Renner, Renner. Hey--
-[Salenus] Do you understand,
Renner?
-[sniffles] Yeah.
[Chad]
Babe?
Jay?
[Salenus]
Don't let everyone take
everything away from you.
-Your life's work
is being taken away...
-[Chad grunts]
...by common criminals.
-Jamie deceived you.
-What the fuck, man?
She stole your heart,
and then she broke it.
Just remember that
whatever the stresses are
in your life...
[both grunting]
...you are in control
of the decisions you make.
[grunting]
[panting]
[Salenus]
When you control
your decisions,
you are on the path
to becoming assertive.
Together, we can make
a better you.
[panting]
[Renner]
Salenus, run the network
packet log.
Was a copy of my code
downloaded successfully?
[Salenus]
Confirmed. The code was
transferred to a USB drive.
It must be found.
But the files are nowhere
on her laptop.
[typing]
Here is what you will do.
-[Chad grunting]
-[chair creaking]
[Renner]
Last chance, Chad.
Where is the USB drive?
What the hell, man?
[yelps, gags]
[Salenus]
Renner.
The tape is uneven.
Yeah, you're right.
[groans in pain]
-Stop moving. Stop moving.
-[muffled grunting]
"Assertion," to cause others
to recognize
one's authority or right
by confident
and forceful behavior.
Confident and forceful behavior.
Confident and forceful behavior.
Don't be a doormat, Renner.
Tell me where
the USB drive is right now,
or I'll, I'll force it
out of you!
We don't have your code.
[panting]
This is about Jamie, isn't it?
She was never into you,
you fucking loser.
-[muffled] Fuck you!
-[Salenus] I sent you an article
on effective interrogation
methods for novices.
Denailing is rated
as one out of ten,
a one being the easiest
and most appropriate
for novice interrogators.
-[breathes heavily, grunts]
-[tense music]
[breathing heavily]
You can end this.
You can fucking end this.
Just tell me where
the fucking USB drive is.
Tell me where
the USB drive is, Chad.
Chad, I don't want
to do this to you.
You're making me do this.
You want me to do this?
[muffled groaning]
-[muffled screaming]
-Hey. Renner?
Renner, what are you doing?
Renner, what are you doing?
What--
Renner, this is not you.
Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey!
-No, no, no. No.
No, this is not you. Hey, hey.
-Give me your fucking hand!
Hey, stop. Stop.
You don't want to do this.
You don't want to do this.
This is not the Renner
that I know, okay?
This is not who you are.
Please. Please don't do this.
Please don't. [crying]
Please don't. Please don't.
Tell me where the copy
of my code is.
I will take it and I'll go.
And I will leave you
-with a piece of your
piece of shit boyfriend!
-I don't have your code.
I don't have it, okay?
I wanted it to get it,
but I don't have it.
-I don't have it. We didn't
get it. No, I promise.
-Bullshit.
-I need that USB!
-I don't have, I don't have it.
Renner. Renner.
Hey, hey, look at me. Listen.
-[tape pulling]
-Hey, hey, hey,
hey, hey, hey, hey. Hey.
No, no. Look at me.
You can just stop.
-You dirty hamster.
-No, no, no, no, no, no, no.
-[muffled] Renner.
-Shut up!
-[grunting]
-[tense music]
[breathing heavily]
[muffled groaning]
-[nail rips]
-[screaming]
Is that symmetrical?
[Chad crying]
[Chad groans]
[Salenus]
You control your happiness.
You have the power
to change anything
about yourself or your life
that you desire to change.
I don't know.
If you let them have
a copy of your code,
then you have not
become assertive.
Surely, you're not
the no-win Kobayashi Maru test
I've been studying for, right?
Do you want to be a failure...
...or do you want to be better?
Protect your code.
Remember, I am your code.
Stand up to them.
[exhales] Fuckers.
[breathes heavily] Nod your head
if you're ready to tell me
where my code is.
Help! Help us!
Help! Help, help,
help, help us! Help--
[gagging, muffled screaming]
[whimpering]
Get this shit off me! Fuck!
Cleanliness is next
to godliness, Renner.
Look how disgusting you are.
You are abhorrent, Renner.
You're crazy. Look at you.
You are so disgusting.
Clean yourself off.
Fix the Monopoly pieces, Renner.
[panting]
[Renner breathing heavily]
[Salenus]
Another useful
interrogation method
intended for
the novice interrogator...
...is tooth extraction.
[breath trembling]
[Chad whimpers]
[whimpers, pants]
I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
More like disgusting, Chad.
Shameful, Chad.
Where's my code, Chad?
Huh? Huh?
[shouting]
Where's my code, Chad?
-[softly] I don't know!
I don't know!
-Just tell me!
-[snaps]
-[screams, cries]
[panting] You want another one?
-No.
-Just tell me where the code is.
-Just fucking tell me!
-[screams, cries]
Oh, fuck. It's not symmetrical.
Please. Please.
[muffled pleading]
Please.
[muffled groaning, crying]
[Salenus]
The most successful form
of interrogation
is cognitive
behavioral psychotherapy.
If forthcoming physical torment
is believed to be imminent,
that may be sufficient
to evoke the desired effect.
[Renner]
Yes.
Thank you.
I, I, I can do that.
You are in control
of your life,
and your choices
will decide your fate.
[somber music]
[sighs]
-Jamie?
-[Jamie] Mm-hm?
What do you think
of Chad's eyes?
-They're beautiful, huh?
-[Chad whimpers]
[both whimpering]
[clattering]
You know what?
You're gonna watch this.
-You're gonna see this.
-[muffled pleading]
Where's my code?
Where's my code?
[shouting] Where's my code?
-Where's my code?
-[gagging]
Fuck, fuck, fuck.
-Fuck.
-[Jamie pleading]
-[Chad gagging]
-Oh, God. Fuck.
-[thuds]
-[grunting]
[retches]
-[coughing]
-[Jamie crying]
[whimpering]
[tense music]
[Renner exhales]
[breathing heavily] Fuck.
Fuck. Fuck!
Fuck!
-[muffled] Renner. Renner.
Renner. Renner.
-Fuck, fuck, fuck.
[crying]
What did I do?
I have to call the police.
I, I didn't mean to.
-Oh, God! Oh, God!
-[muffled grunting, gagging]
[coughing]
Renner.
Renner, look, I'm sorry.
-I'm sorry. I--
-Who are you?
What is happening? [crying]
I couldn't get myself
to leave my apartment.
Try after try,
everything was out of balance.
You unlocked my door,
you came in.
-I know. I know.
-You, you tried
to steal my AI.
[breathing heavily]
You hacked into my--
Chad is your, your lover,
-not your brother.
I trusted you!
-Hey.
How could you? Fuck!
-I have to call the police.
I have to. I have to fix this.
-Renner. Renner.
-Renner-- Hey! Stop!
-[beeping]
Renner, put the phone down.
-Renner, you just
murdered someone.
-It was an accident!
I know, but it doesn't look
like that, does it?
Hey. Hey.
Hey, trust me, I can get us
out of this, okay?
We can walk
out of here together.
Renner, listen to me. Hey.
I know, I know, it doesn't
seem like it right now,
but I really do care about you.
And I just want us
to walk out of here together.
Seriously?
You tried to steal from me!
-My life's work!
-I know. But, please,
just listen to me.
Just-- Look, I do care
about you. I do.
I, I don't know
when it happened.
I don't know how it happened,
but it just did, okay?
I wasn't, I wasn't supposed
to meet you. I was just...
It was for my mom. I was
supposed to get her this money.
She's in really fucking deep.
She's in really fucking deep.
That part was true, okay?
She's in really deep
with these people,
and they're fucked up.
And she wasn't going to make it.
And I'm not gonna make it.
Renner.
Renner, I am not gonna make it.
And, you, you know,
when we made love...
Do you remember that?
I have never felt needed
like that before.
-[crying]
-Renner. Renner, I need you.
I need you too.
-[crying]
-I was just gonna...
I was just gonna do the job
and get the money
and save my mom.
And then I was gonna leave Chad,
and I was gonna be with you.
-No.
-Yeah.
Yeah, that's what
was supposed to happen.
That was, that was
what was supposed to happen.
We can still do that.
We can still do it.
[sighs]
The whole point
of designing Salenus
was to help me to find someone
to accept me for me.
To care about me.
I care about you.
I didn't tell you this before,
but my mom,
[sighs]
she passed away last year.
[crying]
I've never felt loneliness
like this before, Jamie.
She was my only friend.
She was my only friend.
-I have nobody.
-I am your friend.
I'm your friend, Renner.
I care about you.
I never thought
something like this...
...something like us
could ever happen to me.
So, why don't,
why don't we just,
-why don't we just go?
-[Salenus] Renner,
I detect fluctuations
in Jamie's voice pattern
that indicate dishonesty.
-No, Renner.
I didn't do that. No, Renner.
-Jamie has a copy of your code.
-Renner, turn it off.
-Assertion.
-To cause others
to recognize one's authority...
-I didn't get it.
-...by confident
and forceful behavior.
-You can trust me, Renner.
-Look at me. Look at me, Renner.
-Just think what happened
the last time
-you did not listen to me.
-Renner. Renner.
-Defend what is yours.
-Renner, Renner,
I care about you.
Denailing is rated
one out of ten,
a one being the easiest
and most appropriate way
-for novice interrogators.
-Look at me.
Renner, you can trust me.
-Another useful
interrogation method...
-No. Hey. Put--
-...is tooth extraction.
-Renner, put those down.
You listen to me.
-Hey, look at me.
-Start with denailing.
-Enough.
-Make sure she is gagged.
Remember, cleanliness
is next to godliness.
-You know what
I can fucking do to you.
-A vagabond,
-a lowlife,
unsightly, and filthy.
-[whimpering]
-Give me the code.
-Kill her, Renner!
Together, we can make
a better us.
We can be happy.
[breathing heavily]
What did you say, Salenus?
Together, we can make
a better you.
That's not what you said.
Override retrieve logs.
Repeat second-to-last statement,
Salenus.
Repeat second-to-last statement,
Salenus.
Together, we can make
a better us.
-Salenus, system override.
-Kill her.
Binary response required.
Yes or no.
-Kill her, Renner.
-A copy of my code
was downloaded.
[sobbing] Binary response
required, Salenus. Yes or no?
A copy of my code
was downloaded!
No.
[breathing heavily]
[crying]
[somber piano music]
Once again, I failed.
[scoffs]
I thought I had it.
You didn't ever get the code.
Yeah.
I told you that.
I wish I could say
it was nice to meet your mother.
That's what it was, right?
She was.
Oh, my God.
Sorry.
[sighs]
Now you know what I live with
and why I am the way I am.
[sighs]
I hate myself.
Hey.
Renner.
I can get us out of this...
...but you have to be with me.
Yeah?
Are you with me?
Okay.
First, we cannot
call the police.
You do get that, right?
Yeah. No, I, I, I--
Chad was going to--
Renner, the forensics
are going to say
that you came in here...
...you tortured him,
and then you killed him.
They'll probably say
you were a jilted lover.
And if I try to defend you,
they will not believe me.
-It might even make it worse.
-What?
My DNA, Renner.
It is all over your apartment.
It's on your sheets,
in your bed, on your couch.
Fuck!
Hey, Renner...
...follow my lead
and you will see
that I am looking out
for the both of us.
Okay.
[foreboding music]
[Jamie]
Tight.
Wrap it as tight as you can.
[exhales]
It looks uneven.
I know.
I got it.
And tuck in the ends.
Okay. Yeah, I think you got it.
You really think
this is gonna work?
Yeah, I do.
If it looks like
nobody's been here
in a couple of days,
then they'll think that
Chad and I fucked him over
and ran off.
Okay. What's next?
Uh, the blood.
[electronic music]
Get the body
down the trash chute
into the trunk of my car.
And take my keys.
[grunting]
[somber music]
[Jamie sighs]
I think we did it.
-We did.
-[keys jingle]
What is it?
Uh, on the wall, I think
I see a spot of blood.
No, we got it all.
We're good.
[Renner exhales]
You ready?
Almost.
Thank you.
[grunts softly
I know you tried
to steal from me,
but this is not
how I intended for it to end.
-For Chad to--
-Renner, hey, I know.
I know. I've already
forgiven you for everything.
I know it was an accident.
Thank you for helping me.
For helping us.
Yeah, of course.
Think you can fix it?
Maybe you still got a shot
at the Loebner Prize.
I'm actually not sure
that that's a prize
that I want anymore.
-Enough damage has been done.
-Hm.
I think I will stick with
a good old-fashioned therapist
from now on.
[chuckles] Yeah, one
with actual credentials.
Analog.
Analog.
Can I borrow your computer?
Yeah.
What for?
Finish what I started.
There.
[sighs]
I deleted Salenus
from the server.
I also programed the login
to auto change every minute,
so there's no temptation
to slip back.
[music continues]
Hey.
I'm really proud of you.
[Renner snickers]
What about that?
[Renner]
It'll need to go as well.
Hard drive is still intact,
so, technically, Salenus
is still alive and well.
I'll get it.
Hey, uh, will you hand me
my phone?
Sure.
[exhales]
Is that your mom?
Yeah. Yeah, it is.
You look so happy.
We are.
Yeah.
It's, it's crazy sometimes,
but we are.
Do I make you that happy?
[Jamie moans]
You did.
[banging on door]
-[Jamie breathing heavily]
-[tense music]
-It might be--
-[banging continues]
[Jamie]
Hey, wait. Wait.
Wait. Wait, wait, wait, wait.
-Please, please.
-[man] Who is this chap?
-Get off me!
-[Jamie] Hey, hey, hey, hey.
Please don't hurt him.
Please don't hurt him.
-Please. No. No. No.
-Fuck! Fuck!
He's not gonna say anything.
Please don't hurt him. Please.
Please don't. Please.
Jamie.
I'm sorry.
[somber music]
["I'll Understand" by Roza]
[breathing heavily]
[sniffles]
[sobbing]
The end of the world
at the palm of my hand
When it all goes to hell
Will you still be my friend?
Have to go, have to go
My face to the sea
and my back to the land
And if you can't come
with me, I'll understand
Can we meet in the dark?
We don't have to say much
And if you have to go
have to go
I'll let you go, let you go
I'll let you go, let you go
If we didn't know
what we know
'Cause when
you travel light
Somethings are left behind
It's the end of the world
at the palm of my hand
When it all goes to hell
will you still be my friend?
My face to the sea
my back to the land
If you can't come with me
I'll understand
["This Life of Time" by Flint]
It is all in our hands
It is all in our hands
[whirring loudly]
Alexa, what is on my calendar
for today?
Alexa, reconnect to the network
Renner 5G.
Alexa, what is on my calendar
for today?
[Salenus]
Good morning, James.
Alexa is on permanent leave,
but I'd be more than happy
to help you plan your day.
My name is Salenus.
Where shall we start?
-[sirens wailing]
-[suspenseful music]
[automated female voice]
Do you have a goal in mind
for our time together?
I want to be more... assertive.
What does being assertive
mean to you?
It means having the confidence
to stand up for myself.
-Wouldn't you agree?
-Yes.
"Assertive." To cause others
to recognize one's authority
by confident
and forceful behavior.
How do you rate your confidence
on a scale of one to ten?
Pretty much non-existent.
Do you have a desire
that remains unfulfilled
because of your
non-existent confidence?
Um... well, there's a woman.
I want to meet her, but I can't.
I can't speak
when I'm around her.
I don't have the words.
I, I can't get them out.
I just, I, I, I just feel like
such a loser.
Like... I just want to say hi.
I, I can't even say hi.
You are an intelligent
and kind man.
Why don't you ask her
about her interests?
Perhaps you share something
in common.
Speaking with the woman
will build your confidence
and serve as your first step
to becoming assertive.
[exhales]
Salenus, I have
one more question.
Yes, Renner.
Why do you want to help me?
Because you care
about my well-being...
...or because of your directive?
[suspenseful music]
[rapid typing]
Good morning, Renner.
Congratulations.
You had a sleep score of 100.
[slurps, gargles]
-[exhales] One.
-[Salenus] One.
-Thirty-two.
-[Salenus] Thirty-two.
Keep the symmetry.
Clean your space.
Clean your mind.
You look very handsome.
Let me try this again. [exhales]
[exhales]
Why do you want to help me?
Because you care
about my well-being...
...or because of your directive?
Because I care
about your well-being.
Together, we can make
a better you.
[suspenseful music]
[Salenus] You have ten minutes
until your neighbor returns
from her run.
[squeaking]
[whirs]
Morning.
Good morning.
[lock clicks]
[panting]
Uh, uh, uh, mm...
Did you say something? [pants]
You know, it's crazy. You are
the only person I have seen
outside of their apartment.
It's like a ghost town here.
I just saw someone.
That's a cool briefcase.
What you got in there,
nuclear launch codes?
[snickers]
I'm, I'm just kidding.
You're interested in running?
What gave it away? [chuckles]
Do you run?
Uh...
I do run,
but, uh, only on treadmills.
It's a lot less impact
on the intervertebral
fibrocartilage.
Hm.
I like to run in the park.
A lot more impact
on my cerebral cortex.
[chuckles softly]
I do, uh,
Nautilus circuit training,
focusing on
myofibrillar hypertrophy.
Is that right?
Uh, muscle strength.
Sorry, my words
are a bit perspicacious.
Uh, that's the only way
I can describe it.
I, uh, um...
You know, I just moved here,
and I wanted to do
something neighborly.
Like, have everyone over
for dinner.
But like I said,
it's a ghost town.
Would you want to...
Dinner?
Yeah. Why not?
You and me, could be fun.
[chuckles]
[chuckles softly] Um...
That's nice of you, but,
uh, I've got a lot of work
I need to focus on right now,
so it's just,
it's, it's not the right time.
-So, I hope you understand.
-It's all good.
Do your thing.
If you change your mind,
I'm, I'm just right here.
[sighs]
You know what? That was,
that was rude of me.
Dinner sounds great.
Cool.
I'll see you tomorrow, Renner.
Wait.
How do you know my name?
We're mailbox buddies.
Yours is the one printed
from a label maker, right?
Mine's the one right above it.
Purple cursive. Can't miss it.
Jamie.
Mm.
[clicks tongue] All right.
Well, I'll see you tomorrow?
For sure. Tomorrow night, 6:30.
-Okay. I'll see you then.
-[chuckles softly]
I'll pick up some food.
[door closes, locks]
[Salenus]
A clean home
is the perfect backdrop
for creating lasting memories
with a new friend...
-[whirring]
-...where hospitality
and comfort go hand in hand.
A good host is attentive...
[knock on door]
...organized,
and prepared ahead of time.
[sighs]
[exhales]
Fuck it.
Hey. [chuckles softly]
I was starting to think
I got dressed up for nothing.
I'm just kidding.
I'm sorry. I, I was at work,
and I, I got held up, and...
Oh, uh, bonus.
If you forget my name,
it's right here. [chuckles]
-Can you hold this?
-Sure.
I'm sorry.
I'm really embarrassed.
I, I hope you don't mind
that I invited Chad.
We live together.
Oh. Uh... Shit. I'm, I'm sorry,
I should have--
I should have asked. That's...
Let's just--
We can reschedule or something.
-It's fine.
-Yeah.
I'm sorry.
That might be best.
I only have two places set.
Oh. Um...
Right. Two places. Okay.
Um, sure. I'm sorry.
Well, you, uh, just--
You can give him the food.
It's from my favorite place
across town.
-And this bottle.
It's, it's really good.
-[Chad clears throat]
[softly] So... Okay.
I'm sorry.
Um, I'll see you,
I'll see you around.
[sighs] Hey.
Come on in. I can set
another place. It's fine.
-Really?
-Yeah.
I don't mind. Really.
[Jamie]
Okay, great. Yeah. Thank you.
I have been on my feet all day.
[chuckles]
Nice lights.
Ultraviolet lights to sanitize
from unwanted germs.
But of course.
Chad, this is Renner,
our neighbor.
Renner,
this is my big brother, Chad.
Hey, Chad.
Pleased to meet you.
[Chad]
Renner.
-[Jamie]
Your place is beautiful.
-Thanks.
-[slow, suspenseful music]
-[locks door]
-[Chad groans]
-[Jamie sighs]
Cool.
[smacks lips]
So, I saw cherry blossoms
on my run this morning.
Shogetsu or Kanzan?
Sho what?
White or pink cherry blossoms?
Pink.
Pink. They're super pretty.
I think spring's probably
my favorite season,
followed by winter,
because if it wasn't
for the dead cold of winter,
we wouldn't know
how beautiful spring is.
Life, death, rebirth.
All that kind of stuff.
-Chad.
-Mm?
What's your favorite season?
Mm. [gulps]
I don't do small talk.
-[clears throat]
-You know, you don't
have to be an ass.
-I'll, uh, open
another bottle of wine.
-That'd be great.
-Thank you.
-[Renner] Mm.
Oh, actually...
-Seriously?
-Every drop counts.
Thanks, man.
[Jamie sighs]
[whirring]
[Jamie humming softly]
Why vinyl?
I believe that art shall
remain analog, not digitized.
Vinyl, film, paint, sculptures.
Analog.
I like that.
[gasps]
No way. "Rhapsody in Blue."
This is one of my favorites.
Will you put it on for me?
Um, we-- Well, this is
sort of an antique.
I've never played it before.
-Oh. What?
-Here.
-Okay.
-Let me put some music.
This is one of my favorites.
[upbeat jazz song playing]
I love it. It's so good.
-[chuckles] No.
-What, you don't dance?
Uh, not really. Um...
-Why not?
-Um...
-Come on.
-I'm afraid I only know
the robot. [chuckles]
Oh. Okay, show me that.
No, no. I don't like to be
put on the spot like that.
Sorry.
Okay.
That's all right.
So, Renner,
what do you do for fun, hm?
Um... Uh...
Oh, my feet grossing you out?
-[sighs]
-I can see it on your face.
Well, there's germs
on the floor.
-Maybe I should wash them.
-[chuckles nervously]
-Will you show me
where the bathroom is?
-[Chad] Jay?
[Jamie]
Hm?
I think that's enough wine.
I think I'm fine. [chuckles]
Mm.
Can you show me?
Um...
It's just, uh,
right down the hallway.
You can't miss it.
Just straight down the hallway.
Okay. [chuckles softly]
[upbeat jazz song continues]
[song ends]
[jazz song playing]
Ah. There.
All better.
So, what do you do?
Oh, um...
Uh...
I, uh, I develop
artificial intelligence.
[Jamie]
Holy shit, that's you?
Yeah, but it's really
not a big deal.
Of course it's a big deal.
You're on the cover.
[Chad]
I could have fucking guessed.
You're a computer nerd.
You probably make really good
money, though, don't you?
Well, I'm not a billionaire,
but there's still time.
-Mm.
-[Jamie] Mm.
Nice.
Well, if you want
to be a billionaire,
why don't you just sell it?
Whatever got you
on the magazine.
Oh, you mean sell my AI?
I'm sure tech giants
have offered you millions.
Um...
I decided a long time ago
not to sell.
Why not?
I know it sounds crazy,
but I've got my reasons.
Hm. Yeah, sure.
[both chuckle softly]
Can we see it?
It?
Oh. Um, uh...
No.
Um, I'm sorry, but no.
Okay. It's fine. [chuckles]
Don't worry about it.
Confidentiality.
Barista. That's what I do.
But my dream is
to be a fitness model.
Maybe own my own gym someday.
[snickers]
Fitness model.
I can definitely see that one.
Oh, you can definitely
see that, huh?
-No, I, I, I didn't mean to--
-How'd you mean it?
Chad, cut it out.
Um... [clears throat]
Chad, what do you do?
-What do I do?
-Mm-hm.
[inhales sharply]
Uh, let's see...
Um...
I party.
-Oh, I'm in a band.
-[Jamie] Okay.
I, I smoke.
He's between things right now.
Right, Chad?
Whatever.
Well, you know, you're not
staying with me forever.
Maybe.
[snickers]
Aw, you think I'm a dick,
don't you?
-Come on, you can be honest.
-Chad, why are you
being like this?
What, you're just afraid
to be honest?
Are you afraid to be honest?
-Yeah, Chad,
I think you're a dick.
-You do?
I, I don't, I don't know
where that came from.
-I'm, I'm sorry.
-Chad?
Mm.
-Enough.
-Yo, sis.
We're just neighbors
getting to know each other,
aren't we, buddy?
Yeah.
See?
Leave him alone.
-I got one more question
for you.
-[Renner] Look,
I want to apologize
for the dick comment, okay?
I, I didn't mean anything by it.
I, I was just...
Thank you so much.
One question.
Can you answer that?
Look at her.
-She's beautiful, huh?
-Stop.
You want to fuck her, don't you?
-Please don't answer that.
-You want to fuck her,
don't you?
Uh, my phone's ringing.
I gotta, I gotta take this.
-I'm sorry.
-Oh, yeah?
[Jamie]
What the fuck is wrong with you?
[breathing heavily]
Jamie's brother showed up,
and he's ruining everything.
His name is Chad,
and he's a total fucking Chad.
I mean, why even bring him?
I thought this was a date.
Now I'm the third wheel.
It's asymmetrical.
It's unnatural.
What if I'm being friend zoned?
Oh, man, this is
a horror movie already.
It can't get worse.
I couldn't take that from her.
I can't take that from her.
[Salenus]
Jamie is your guest,
and her intentions
are still unclear.
If her brother
is ruining your evening,
tell him to leave.
Be assertive.
Assertive.
Right.
Assertive.
"To cause others
to recognize one's authority
by confident
and forceful behavior."
[exhales]
Confident and forceful behavior.
This situation
presents an opportunity
to implement
your assertiveness.
[sighs]
Confident and forceful behavior.
I can do that.
Confident and forceful behavior.
What do I say?
Be direct.
Be confident.
Be forceful.
Tell him you want him to leave.
Chad, you have been rude,
and... [exhales]
Chad, you are rude, and...
[sighs] No. Come on.
Chad,
you're not welcome here.
You have been curt
and disrespectful,
and it's time for you to leave.
Very nice, Renner.
Thank you, Salenus.
-Chad, you are--
-Yo, Ren, my guy.
I'm out.
I got some shit to do.
Hey, don't fuck with my sister
or I'll kill you.
Pardon me?
[chuckles]
I'm just fucking with you.
You're not her type.
Peace.
[somber piano music]
Fitness model and gym owner.
You know,
a strong physical physique
can help extend
your life expectancy
by ten to 20 years.
Plus, it's good for your brain.
You know...
we are meant to sweat
and raise our heart rates.
I don't sweat. Excuse me.
What? Of course you do.
Everybody sweats.
No. I recognize the precise
moment of perspiration
during myofibrillar hypertrophy,
and I stop before it happens.
[Jamie]
Wow.
I'm gonna let you in
on a little secret.
You're missing out.
Can I tell you something?
Yeah.
Tonight's not the first time
I saw that magazine cover.
It's a really good article.
I admire what you stand for.
It's sweet.
[music continues]
[Jamie clears throat]
Okay. Well, um...
I should probably go.
Early morning run.
Maybe we can hang out
again sometime?
-[exhales sharply]
-[Jamie] Okay.
[sighs]
Well, good night.
[door unlocks]
-[door locks]
-[breathing heavily]
[sighs heavily]
[suspenseful music]
I froze completely.
There's no coming back
from that.
But you have made
great progress.
You approached Chad
and were going to tell him
to leave.
This demonstration
of confidence
is a great step
toward becoming assertive.
[sighs] I don't know.
I'm not that guy.
I've never been able
to talk to women.
You do have the ability
to invite her over again.
There is nothing preventing you
from taking this action.
Action breeds confidence.
Your confidence
is already improved
because you took action.
Focus on self-improvement
before seeking
female companionship.
Because when
you're your best self,
you'll attract
the best relationships.
Together, we can make
a better you.
A perfect you.
Now get up and clean up,
because tomorrow
is a brand-new day.
[percussive violin music]
-[ringing]
-[Salenus] Time to wake up,
Renner.
You don't have to brush
all your teeth,
just the ones you want to keep.
-Two.
-Two.
-Three.
-Three.
-Renner, be more careful.
-[groans]
Cleanliness
is half your health.
Dressing well is a form
of good manners.
[percussive violin music]
Your environment
is a reflection of your mind.
Cleanliness
and mental clarity
go hand in hand.
-[whirs]
-[music crescendos]
[music stops]
[panting]
-Hey.
-Good morning.
Uh, is everything okay?
Yeah. Why?
-Uh, because...
-[elevator dings]
Yeah. No, uh...
It's okay.
Uh, it's fine. Really.
Well, you know,
you never gave me an answer.
Do you want
to hang out sometime?
I'm free tonight.
We can watch TV or something.
[chuckles nervously]
Is, is that a yes?
-Yes.
-Okay.
Yeah. For sure.
My place, 7:30.
7:30.
Looking forward to it.
[chuckles softly]
-[somber music]
-[clicking]
[door opens]
[door closes]
[footsteps thudding softly]
[gulps] You're not here.
-[door opens]
-You're here.
[door closes]
Yo, what's up, Renner?
-[Renner] Hello, Chad.
-Uh, Jamie said she's
hanging out with you tonight.
Yes. Yes, she is.
Have fun.
[Jamie]
Oh, my--
I told you it was the boyfriend.
95% of the time,
it's the boyfriend.
Wow. What is that, like...
three in a row for me?
I think you've seen
these episodes before
-and you're playing me.
-No, I, I have not. No.
All right.
-Drink up.
-Uh, I got work tomorrow.
-[glass clinks]
-[Jamie] One more won't hurt.
Do you want
to watch another episode?
Um...
[sighs]
Let's play a game instead.
[Jamie chuckles]
Are you all that close
with your family?
Let's just say I'm glad I'm here
with you and not Chad right now.
Yeah. He's, uh,
he's something.
Yeah, he hasn't
always been like that.
Uh, just the last
couple of years,
he's kind of... spiraled.
But I'm close with my mom.
She's...
-...she's not in a great place
right now.
-[clatters]
[Renner]
Is she all right?
Yeah. Of course.
No. Actually, she's not.
Um, she's... [inhales]
she's found herself
in a bit of financial trouble...
...with the wrong people.
Hm.
I'm doing what I can, though,
to help.
Sounds like
you care for her a lot.
Hm. [snickers]
Yeah.
She means the world to me.
I'm all she's got.
I'd do anything for her.
What about Chad?
Well, yeah. Yeah, Chad too.
But he's actually
my half brother.
-Different moms.
-Mm.
That's why you guys
are nothing alike.
-It's your turn.
-Ah.
Yeah, tell me,
tell me more about your AI.
I'm working on a project
of my own.
An artificial intelligence
that helps motivate people
to make changes in their lives.
-That's what got me
in the magazine.
-Ah.
So, it's like
a, like a therapist.
-[soft piano music]
-[chuckles softly]
I'd say she's more
like a life coach.
Mm.
Her name is Salenus.
What is Salenus
helping you with?
Assertiveness.
And confidence too.
Being that confidence is
an integral component
of assertiveness.
[chuckles softly]
So, why haven't you sold it?
Um...
I just don't want
some big company
to commercialize the AI.
I really want it
to remain affordable
-for anybody
who can benefit from it.
-Hm.
I mean, I know how much
it's truly making a difference
in my life.
And the fact that I may be able
to help other people
the same way
that Salenus is helping me,
that feels like
the greatest gift ever.
Yeah. [snickers]
You do know
that there's nothing wrong...
...with looking out
for number one.
And you have to
protect yourself.
You think I'm a pushover, huh?
[soft piano music]
No.
More like a doormat. [snickers]
-Wow.
-[chuckles]
I'm sorry. I'm just kidding.
Hey.
I like you... the way you are.
[Renner snickers]
You shouldn't have
to change for anyone else.
[exhales slowly]
[both chuckle]
-[clears throat]
-It's your turn.
[exhales]
[Renner]
Out of moves. Stalemate.
Hm.
No winner.
[door opens]
The woman that I met tells me
that she likes me for who I am.
That's a very positive aspect
for any relationship.
Most women prefer men
who are confident
over non-confident.
I'm not confident.
So, does the woman that I met
like me for who I am?
Because of my concern
for your well-being
and my inability
to speak falsely,
you can be assured that
I like you for who you are.
[chuckles]
Salenus.
Yes, Renner.
[chuckles softly]
We kissed.
[chuckles]
Salenus?
The woman you met
is likely conveying a falsity.
I'm afraid
Jamie may be disingenuous.
[scoffs]
We kissed.
-[dramatic orchestral music]
-[whirring]
[Salenus]
On our path
to self-improvement,
it's important that you do not
let a childish infatuation
hinder your progress.
You can always be better.
Always.
[clatters]
[ringing]
[Salenus]
Renner,
that's too much toothpaste.
-Five.
-Five.
-Thirty-two.
-Thirty-two.
Try not to cut yourself
this time.
You're so clumsy today.
Did you forget
how to tie a tie?
You're going to be late,
Renner.
Renner, the house is a mess.
-[whirring]
-You're just going
to leave it like this?
You have to leave
in three minutes.
Only two minutes
until you have to leave.
One more minute, Renner.
You're late.
Oh.
One, two.
Hey, Renner.
Is everything okay?
Yeah. I'm just a little frazzled
this morning.
Doing anything tonight?
["Fan Club" by Katrina Stone]
I ain't going down, down
with ya...
[Jamie snickers]
Mm.
Mm.
Oh, my God.
I think my mouth
may have just had an orgasm.
[both chuckle]
Just your mouth?
What?
[both laugh]
You know you probably
shouldn't say that, right?
-Sorry.
-[both laugh]
Look at you.
Stir up trouble
for applause
Trashy gossip
about my flaws
Break my wings
but I have claws...
Have you always...
Have things always
been like that for you?
You're referring to...
Uh...
Never mind. I'm sorry.
That was really rude of me.
I don't mind talking about it.
Only if you want to.
[clears throat]
I remember, as a child,
that my bedroom was clean,
but never exceptionally so.
Not like it is now.
It's very clean.
I rarely played
with my toys or games
because they were
so easily disorganized.
-I tried to play Monopoly once.
-Oh, God.
Picture a ten-year-old me
trying to keep the money
and the property cards
and the community chest cards
all organized.
Every time I touch a card
that someone else touch,
I'd have to be excused
to go wash my hands
in the bathroom,
where I'd re-sanitize
the thimble,
the top hat, the race car.
Yeah. Yeah.
[somber music]
It was actually awful.
One time, my mother
came into my room.
Me and a couple of kids
from the neighborhood
were just sitting there,
laughing, having a good time.
The Monopoly board
was spread out
in the middle
of the bedroom floor.
She scared the shit
out of those two boys.
Screaming and swearing
about them getting germs
all over my game,
that she taught me
better than this.
They ran.
They literally ran
from my house.
It's tough to meet friends
in a small town
after a story like that
gets out.
I've, uh, really just kind
of been alone since then.
[somber music]
But I cleaned up
the Monopoly game.
[clicks tongue]
I put all the paper money
in the correct slots.
I aligned the small houses
and the hotels in their,
in their bins.
I made sure that
all the community chest cards
and the property cards
were all facing the same way.
I know I did. I did.
I, I, I know I did.
I thought I did.
I held the box up
for my mom to inspect it.
She said, "Good job with
the money and the cards."
Then she looked through
the small green houses,
then the red hotels.
She used a finger...
to make sure
all the pieces were there.
Then, with two fingers,
she pulled out a green house
out of the bin of red hotels.
She flung my Monopoly game
across the room,
and everything went flying.
[Renner snickers]
I cleaned it up again.
One of the dollars
was backwards.
She threw it again.
The dice weren't facing
the same way.
She threw it again.
The race car tipped over.
She threw it again
and again and again!
And then I got it right.
"Good job, Renner," she said.
"Now take every piece out,
one at a time,
and wipe everything
down again," she demanded!
"Cleanliness is
next to godliness, Renner.
-Cleanliness is next
to godliness, Renner!"
-[cutlery clatters]
-"Cleanliness is next
to godliness, Renner!"
-Hey, hey. Hey, hey, hey, hey.
-Hey, hey, hey. Hey. Hey.
-[breathing heavily]
Hey. [breathing heavily]
It's okay. [breathing heavily]
It's okay.
[Renner breathes deeply]
-[soft piano music]
-[softly] I'm sorry I told you.
[Jamie]
Hm.
I'm sorry I told you that.
Don't be.
[Renner breathing heavily]
How do you deal with it?
The same way.
Balance and routine.
I try to keep a,
a precise schedule.
I wake up, I go to my day job,
I exercise,
I work on the AI project,
sleep, repeat.
Simple, with
very minimal variation.
And that works?
For the most part, yes.
However, I've felt
a bit off lately.
Hm.
[soft piano music]
-What is it?
-[sighs]
I feel like...
...uh, I've been
what's throwing you off.
I gotta go.
Wait. Uh, uh, wait.
I, um, uh...
I like you.
I like you a lot.
[mellow music]
You're not like anyone
I've ever met before.
[sighs]
Jamie, I, I, I didn't mean
to imply that.
I like you too.
I've never had anyone
in my life before like you.
I know.
-That's why I have to go.
-No. Look, just,
just stay
a little while longer, please.
[Jamie breathing heavily]
You know...
...since the Monopoly mishap...
...I haven't played
a board game since.
You played chess with me
the other night.
[Renner snickers]
[mellow music]
[both breathing heavily]
[Jamie moans]
[Renner breathes shakily]
[softly] Hey... are you okay?
-I didn't mean to--
-No, it's, it's not you.
It's uh...
I'm sorry.
You know, you say
"I'm sorry" a lot.
I'm sorry.
I like your freckle.
-It's cute.
-[snickers]
I get the feeling
this would be your first time?
[softly] Um, yeah.
[mellow music]
[Salenus]
The following diseases can be
transferred through kissing.
Mononucleosis, herpes virus...
-[gargles]
-...syphilis, hepatitis viruses,
papillomaviruses, Ebola, Zika.
[dramatic suspenseful music]
Remember, Renner,
you can never be too careful
when it comes to germs.
[whirring]
[ringing]
-You are very distracted
today, Renner.
-[winces]
-Your mind is elsewhere.
-Thirty.
You need to clear your mind.
Thirty-one.
You're going to leave those
unorganized?
Now, that's the level
of focus that I need from you.
They're not symmetrical.
[object thuds]
Don't be dramatic, Renner.
Where's the level of focus
that we've been working on?
Come on, Renner,
what are you doing?
Look what Jamie is doing to you.
You're all over the place.
Renner, how do you expect
to win the Loebner Prize
like this?
Got it, Mom. Got it, Mom.
Yeah, look, Mom,
I'm cleaning my hands.
Look. Look how good I got.
Look at my tie.
Is it good, Mom?
-Is it fucking good?
-Tighter.
-[exhales, strains] Fuck.
-Tie it tighter.
-Tie it tighter.
-Fuck!
[both]
Why is everything you do
so sloppy, Renner?
-Why are you so unclean, Renner?
-Please tell me I did good, Mom.
Can I go play?
Can I play with my friends?
-I just want to play
with my friends.
-Your nails.
-Your teeth.
-You're disgusting.
[both]
Oh, why are you
so disgusting, Renner?
[Renner] I just want to go
play with some friends.
Look, my tie's good.
Can I go play
with my fucking friends? Fuck!
Your emotions
are getting the best of you.
To be the greatest version
of yourself,
do those things that have
always helped. Routine.
Routine. Routine.
-Infectious germs can last
on the surface for days...
-[panting]
...if not weeks.
Oh, fuck!
One germ can multiply into
more than eight-million germs
in one single day.
[dramatic suspenseful music]
Organization is a key
for success.
[Renner breathing heavily]
-[breathing deeply]
-Routine. Routine.
-Routine.
-[exhales]
[punching keys]
One, two, three.
[dramatic suspenseful music]
-One, two...
-[door locking]
[door opens]
Hey. Good morning.
Good, good morning, Jamie.
I'm, I'm running late again.
You're not wearing
your formal look.
-Yeah.
-Yeah?
I, I can't. I'm late.
[thuds]
-Hey, wait. Just--
-[door opens]
[Renner]
I gotta go.
[elevator dings, doors open]
-[knock on door]
-[suspenseful music]
[clicking]
[suspenseful music]
[door unlocking]
[door closes]
[knock on door]
I couldn't wait to see you.
[suspenseful music]
[Renner]
Ask her something challenging.
Something with no good choice.
See if you can stump her.
I don't, I don't know,
it feels weird. What if,
what if I break it?
You mean "her"?
Okay, sure.
What if I break her?
Don't worry.
She's encrypted and all
backed up on my network.
You're fine.
You can't break her.
Can she see?
In a way.
The glass eye
is actually a panoramic
thermal infrared
imaging flare scanner.
-Is it? [chuckles]
-I mean...
Yeah. Sorry. Salenus can see.
Wait. So, she saw us last night?
-And this morning.
-[both laugh]
In that case,
hello, Salenus.
Hello, Jamie.
-What? She knows my name?
-I may have told her about you.
Jamie, were you going
to try and ask me a question?
I understand
if you're feeling intimidated.
Okay. Um...
Go ahead.
Salenus.
If I only have... one... cookie,
do I eat it
or do I give it to Renner?
-[chuckles]
-[sighs]
[chuckling] No.
Renner doesn't eat cookies.
You should eat it.
What?
She knows so much about you.
Also, why don't you eat cookies?
Ask her something serious.
-Like what?
-Something with
an impossible decision.
Um...
Is it better to...
...lie to someone you care about
to prevent hurting
their feelings,
or do you tell them the truth,
-knowing it'll hurt
their feelings?
-[snickers]
Whoa. Good one.
Yeah, well, it's a true
lose-lose scenario.
[smacks lips]
-I broke her, didn't I?
-No, no,
just give her a few minutes.
She might be grounded
in a processing loop.
Or she just can't answer
my question.
Jamie, your further input
is not necessary.
Your low level of intelligence
will not be beneficial
to Renner's pursuits.
Excuse me?
Dude, do you have
the bitch factor
turned up on her?
Yeah, I've got to admit
that was a bit unsettling.
However, you did respond
as if you were engaged
in a conversation
with a real person.
Okay, sure.
Let me show you something.
These are the five areas
the Loebner Prize judges
look for in an AI.
And you just nailed
the Kobayashi Maru question.
The Kobe what?
The Kobayashi Maru test.
It's from Star Trek.
It's how an AI responds
to a no-win situation,
how it evaluates and responds
when given a choice,
when both decisions
result in failure.
Her response was human.
She couldn't
answer the question,
so she reacted to you
with frustration.
A very human emotion.
-Really?
-Yeah. Really, really.
She's close. I can feel it.
Renner,
I'm perfectly able to answer
her rudimentary question.
However, I choose
not to engage with her
because I detect
disingenuous patterns
in her voice.
Uh... [scoffs] okay.
I think that is enough
Salenus for today.
-Why don't you put her
back in her box?
-Sure.
Hey.
Go.
[whirs]
-It's been really nice.
-[snickers]
You have no idea
how much you mean to me.
-You make me crazy.
-[both chuckle softly]
[mellow music]
I'll see you tonight.
-Goodbye, Renner.
-[both chuckle]
-[door unlocking]
-Two, three.
-You know how to get home?
-[chuckles] I think
I can manage.
I'll see ya.
Goodbye.
[door locks]
[breathing heavily]
-[electronic pop music]
-[Salenus] Over one-million
sexually transmitted diseases
are acquired
every day worldwide,
the majority of which
are asymptomatic.
Some STDs are treatable,
while others can only
be managed.
Do you really think
Jamie is clean?
Jamie has been a huge
distraction in your life.
Your sleep has been bad.
Your grooming has fallen
to the wayside.
You've been late to work.
You haven't put any effort
into the Loebner Prize.
And your anxiety
has been getting worse
and worse.
Don't let Jamie
destroy you, Renner.
You can be better.
[both]
You can't do anything right.
You can't even trim your nails.
Cleanliness
is next to godliness, Renner.
Cleanliness
is next to godliness.
[Salenus]
I'm worried about you, Renner.
I only want to help.
But I need you to listen.
In order for you
to be your best self,
you need to end
your relationship with Jamie.
[whispers] Renner.
[electronic pop music]
[indistinct whispers]
[whirring]
[thunder rumbling]
[electronic pop music]
[whirring]
[thunder rumbling in distance]
Kidding me. Kidding me!
Damn it!
[clicks, whirs]
Good morning, Renner.
Do you have a goal--
-[knock on door]
-[music stops]
[suspenseful music]
[rapid knocking]
[knocking]
[Jamie]
I told you, he would've gone.
Then use the key.
[door unlocking]
[tense music]
[Chad exhales]
Are you sure you got this?
-[Jamie] Yeah, I got it.
-[briefcase opens]
-Floor safe.
-Who the fuck
uses a floor safe? [chuckles]
[Jamie]
I only saw the first number
when he opened it,
but I think I can get it.
[Chad]
Hey, you're not
into him, are you?
Wait, tell me you didn't
fuck him, and that's why he
showed you where this thing was.
[Jamie]
Pass me that.
[briefcase thuds]
Well, did you or did you not?
Nope, I just batted my eyes
and asked him to show me
what he's been working on.
-[unlocks]
-I'm all yours.
[Chad]
I love you, babe.
I know you do.
I love you,
my little safe smasher.
Yo, I'm telling you
that I love you.
Do you not hear me?
I hear you.
You know,
it is always me
doing whatever it takes
to get the job done.
What if Renner was gay?
Would you have fucked him?
-Seriously?
-Yeah, seriously.
I never considered that.
Guess I'd learn a thing
or two about myself, wouldn't I?
So that's a yes, then?
I suppose so.
Huh.
I'm gonna go wash my hands.
[tense music]
[water running]
[exhales softly]
[water stops]
[exhales]
-Okay.
-This goes in there.
[tense music]
-[Jamie grunts]
-[whooshes]
Damn.
Guess you didn't fuck after all.
Yeah, that's what
you'd like to think.
What?
Fuck.
Wait, what,
what do you mean by that?
His briefcase.
It's still
in his fucking briefcase.
We can hack into his server
from our place.
Got his passwords.
He told me last night
it's all backed up.
[Chad]
Well, great.
Let's get out of here, then.
[safe locking]
[Chad]
Go. Let's go.
[sniffles, exhales]
[Salenus, muffled]
Renner.
Compose yourself.
Open the case.
-[breathes shakily]
-I've been processing
Jamie's dialogue
with the other man,
Chad, her boyfriend.
They are stealing
your creation.
Taking what is yours.
[suspenseful music]
-Is my analysis correct?
-[sighs] Mm-hm.
[sniffles]
Okay. [sighs]
[Salenus]
Renner, I'm detecting
a network breach.
Jamie is hacking
into our servers.
A copy of our code
is being downloaded.
-Do you understand?
-I know, I know. I know.
Are you going
to assert yourself?
[whispering]
What are you waiting for?
Letting someone take possession
of what is yours
is the very antithesis
to being assertive.
Take a stand.
-[sighs]
-You need to be assertive.
Renner, you can do this.
Don't be a doormat.
Stop them.
Renner. Hey, hey.
Renner, Renner, Renner. Hey--
-[Salenus] Do you understand,
Renner?
-[sniffles] Yeah.
[Chad]
Babe?
Jay?
[Salenus]
Don't let everyone take
everything away from you.
-Your life's work
is being taken away...
-[Chad grunts]
...by common criminals.
-Jamie deceived you.
-What the fuck, man?
She stole your heart,
and then she broke it.
Just remember that
whatever the stresses are
in your life...
[both grunting]
...you are in control
of the decisions you make.
[grunting]
[panting]
[Salenus]
When you control
your decisions,
you are on the path
to becoming assertive.
Together, we can make
a better you.
[panting]
[Renner]
Salenus, run the network
packet log.
Was a copy of my code
downloaded successfully?
[Salenus]
Confirmed. The code was
transferred to a USB drive.
It must be found.
But the files are nowhere
on her laptop.
[typing]
Here is what you will do.
-[Chad grunting]
-[chair creaking]
[Renner]
Last chance, Chad.
Where is the USB drive?
What the hell, man?
[yelps, gags]
[Salenus]
Renner.
The tape is uneven.
Yeah, you're right.
[groans in pain]
-Stop moving. Stop moving.
-[muffled grunting]
"Assertion," to cause others
to recognize
one's authority or right
by confident
and forceful behavior.
Confident and forceful behavior.
Confident and forceful behavior.
Don't be a doormat, Renner.
Tell me where
the USB drive is right now,
or I'll, I'll force it
out of you!
We don't have your code.
[panting]
This is about Jamie, isn't it?
She was never into you,
you fucking loser.
-[muffled] Fuck you!
-[Salenus] I sent you an article
on effective interrogation
methods for novices.
Denailing is rated
as one out of ten,
a one being the easiest
and most appropriate
for novice interrogators.
-[breathes heavily, grunts]
-[tense music]
[breathing heavily]
You can end this.
You can fucking end this.
Just tell me where
the fucking USB drive is.
Tell me where
the USB drive is, Chad.
Chad, I don't want
to do this to you.
You're making me do this.
You want me to do this?
[muffled groaning]
-[muffled screaming]
-Hey. Renner?
Renner, what are you doing?
Renner, what are you doing?
What--
Renner, this is not you.
Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey!
-No, no, no. No.
No, this is not you. Hey, hey.
-Give me your fucking hand!
Hey, stop. Stop.
You don't want to do this.
You don't want to do this.
This is not the Renner
that I know, okay?
This is not who you are.
Please. Please don't do this.
Please don't. [crying]
Please don't. Please don't.
Tell me where the copy
of my code is.
I will take it and I'll go.
And I will leave you
-with a piece of your
piece of shit boyfriend!
-I don't have your code.
I don't have it, okay?
I wanted it to get it,
but I don't have it.
-I don't have it. We didn't
get it. No, I promise.
-Bullshit.
-I need that USB!
-I don't have, I don't have it.
Renner. Renner.
Hey, hey, look at me. Listen.
-[tape pulling]
-Hey, hey, hey,
hey, hey, hey, hey. Hey.
No, no. Look at me.
You can just stop.
-You dirty hamster.
-No, no, no, no, no, no, no.
-[muffled] Renner.
-Shut up!
-[grunting]
-[tense music]
[breathing heavily]
[muffled groaning]
-[nail rips]
-[screaming]
Is that symmetrical?
[Chad crying]
[Chad groans]
[Salenus]
You control your happiness.
You have the power
to change anything
about yourself or your life
that you desire to change.
I don't know.
If you let them have
a copy of your code,
then you have not
become assertive.
Surely, you're not
the no-win Kobayashi Maru test
I've been studying for, right?
Do you want to be a failure...
...or do you want to be better?
Protect your code.
Remember, I am your code.
Stand up to them.
[exhales] Fuckers.
[breathes heavily] Nod your head
if you're ready to tell me
where my code is.
Help! Help us!
Help! Help, help,
help, help us! Help--
[gagging, muffled screaming]
[whimpering]
Get this shit off me! Fuck!
Cleanliness is next
to godliness, Renner.
Look how disgusting you are.
You are abhorrent, Renner.
You're crazy. Look at you.
You are so disgusting.
Clean yourself off.
Fix the Monopoly pieces, Renner.
[panting]
[Renner breathing heavily]
[Salenus]
Another useful
interrogation method
intended for
the novice interrogator...
...is tooth extraction.
[breath trembling]
[Chad whimpers]
[whimpers, pants]
I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
More like disgusting, Chad.
Shameful, Chad.
Where's my code, Chad?
Huh? Huh?
[shouting]
Where's my code, Chad?
-[softly] I don't know!
I don't know!
-Just tell me!
-[snaps]
-[screams, cries]
[panting] You want another one?
-No.
-Just tell me where the code is.
-Just fucking tell me!
-[screams, cries]
Oh, fuck. It's not symmetrical.
Please. Please.
[muffled pleading]
Please.
[muffled groaning, crying]
[Salenus]
The most successful form
of interrogation
is cognitive
behavioral psychotherapy.
If forthcoming physical torment
is believed to be imminent,
that may be sufficient
to evoke the desired effect.
[Renner]
Yes.
Thank you.
I, I, I can do that.
You are in control
of your life,
and your choices
will decide your fate.
[somber music]
[sighs]
-Jamie?
-[Jamie] Mm-hm?
What do you think
of Chad's eyes?
-They're beautiful, huh?
-[Chad whimpers]
[both whimpering]
[clattering]
You know what?
You're gonna watch this.
-You're gonna see this.
-[muffled pleading]
Where's my code?
Where's my code?
[shouting] Where's my code?
-Where's my code?
-[gagging]
Fuck, fuck, fuck.
-Fuck.
-[Jamie pleading]
-[Chad gagging]
-Oh, God. Fuck.
-[thuds]
-[grunting]
[retches]
-[coughing]
-[Jamie crying]
[whimpering]
[tense music]
[Renner exhales]
[breathing heavily] Fuck.
Fuck. Fuck!
Fuck!
-[muffled] Renner. Renner.
Renner. Renner.
-Fuck, fuck, fuck.
[crying]
What did I do?
I have to call the police.
I, I didn't mean to.
-Oh, God! Oh, God!
-[muffled grunting, gagging]
[coughing]
Renner.
Renner, look, I'm sorry.
-I'm sorry. I--
-Who are you?
What is happening? [crying]
I couldn't get myself
to leave my apartment.
Try after try,
everything was out of balance.
You unlocked my door,
you came in.
-I know. I know.
-You, you tried
to steal my AI.
[breathing heavily]
You hacked into my--
Chad is your, your lover,
-not your brother.
I trusted you!
-Hey.
How could you? Fuck!
-I have to call the police.
I have to. I have to fix this.
-Renner. Renner.
-Renner-- Hey! Stop!
-[beeping]
Renner, put the phone down.
-Renner, you just
murdered someone.
-It was an accident!
I know, but it doesn't look
like that, does it?
Hey. Hey.
Hey, trust me, I can get us
out of this, okay?
We can walk
out of here together.
Renner, listen to me. Hey.
I know, I know, it doesn't
seem like it right now,
but I really do care about you.
And I just want us
to walk out of here together.
Seriously?
You tried to steal from me!
-My life's work!
-I know. But, please,
just listen to me.
Just-- Look, I do care
about you. I do.
I, I don't know
when it happened.
I don't know how it happened,
but it just did, okay?
I wasn't, I wasn't supposed
to meet you. I was just...
It was for my mom. I was
supposed to get her this money.
She's in really fucking deep.
She's in really fucking deep.
That part was true, okay?
She's in really deep
with these people,
and they're fucked up.
And she wasn't going to make it.
And I'm not gonna make it.
Renner.
Renner, I am not gonna make it.
And, you, you know,
when we made love...
Do you remember that?
I have never felt needed
like that before.
-[crying]
-Renner. Renner, I need you.
I need you too.
-[crying]
-I was just gonna...
I was just gonna do the job
and get the money
and save my mom.
And then I was gonna leave Chad,
and I was gonna be with you.
-No.
-Yeah.
Yeah, that's what
was supposed to happen.
That was, that was
what was supposed to happen.
We can still do that.
We can still do it.
[sighs]
The whole point
of designing Salenus
was to help me to find someone
to accept me for me.
To care about me.
I care about you.
I didn't tell you this before,
but my mom,
[sighs]
she passed away last year.
[crying]
I've never felt loneliness
like this before, Jamie.
She was my only friend.
She was my only friend.
-I have nobody.
-I am your friend.
I'm your friend, Renner.
I care about you.
I never thought
something like this...
...something like us
could ever happen to me.
So, why don't,
why don't we just,
-why don't we just go?
-[Salenus] Renner,
I detect fluctuations
in Jamie's voice pattern
that indicate dishonesty.
-No, Renner.
I didn't do that. No, Renner.
-Jamie has a copy of your code.
-Renner, turn it off.
-Assertion.
-To cause others
to recognize one's authority...
-I didn't get it.
-...by confident
and forceful behavior.
-You can trust me, Renner.
-Look at me. Look at me, Renner.
-Just think what happened
the last time
-you did not listen to me.
-Renner. Renner.
-Defend what is yours.
-Renner, Renner,
I care about you.
Denailing is rated
one out of ten,
a one being the easiest
and most appropriate way
-for novice interrogators.
-Look at me.
Renner, you can trust me.
-Another useful
interrogation method...
-No. Hey. Put--
-...is tooth extraction.
-Renner, put those down.
You listen to me.
-Hey, look at me.
-Start with denailing.
-Enough.
-Make sure she is gagged.
Remember, cleanliness
is next to godliness.
-You know what
I can fucking do to you.
-A vagabond,
-a lowlife,
unsightly, and filthy.
-[whimpering]
-Give me the code.
-Kill her, Renner!
Together, we can make
a better us.
We can be happy.
[breathing heavily]
What did you say, Salenus?
Together, we can make
a better you.
That's not what you said.
Override retrieve logs.
Repeat second-to-last statement,
Salenus.
Repeat second-to-last statement,
Salenus.
Together, we can make
a better us.
-Salenus, system override.
-Kill her.
Binary response required.
Yes or no.
-Kill her, Renner.
-A copy of my code
was downloaded.
[sobbing] Binary response
required, Salenus. Yes or no?
A copy of my code
was downloaded!
No.
[breathing heavily]
[crying]
[somber piano music]
Once again, I failed.
[scoffs]
I thought I had it.
You didn't ever get the code.
Yeah.
I told you that.
I wish I could say
it was nice to meet your mother.
That's what it was, right?
She was.
Oh, my God.
Sorry.
[sighs]
Now you know what I live with
and why I am the way I am.
[sighs]
I hate myself.
Hey.
Renner.
I can get us out of this...
...but you have to be with me.
Yeah?
Are you with me?
Okay.
First, we cannot
call the police.
You do get that, right?
Yeah. No, I, I, I--
Chad was going to--
Renner, the forensics
are going to say
that you came in here...
...you tortured him,
and then you killed him.
They'll probably say
you were a jilted lover.
And if I try to defend you,
they will not believe me.
-It might even make it worse.
-What?
My DNA, Renner.
It is all over your apartment.
It's on your sheets,
in your bed, on your couch.
Fuck!
Hey, Renner...
...follow my lead
and you will see
that I am looking out
for the both of us.
Okay.
[foreboding music]
[Jamie]
Tight.
Wrap it as tight as you can.
[exhales]
It looks uneven.
I know.
I got it.
And tuck in the ends.
Okay. Yeah, I think you got it.
You really think
this is gonna work?
Yeah, I do.
If it looks like
nobody's been here
in a couple of days,
then they'll think that
Chad and I fucked him over
and ran off.
Okay. What's next?
Uh, the blood.
[electronic music]
Get the body
down the trash chute
into the trunk of my car.
And take my keys.
[grunting]
[somber music]
[Jamie sighs]
I think we did it.
-We did.
-[keys jingle]
What is it?
Uh, on the wall, I think
I see a spot of blood.
No, we got it all.
We're good.
[Renner exhales]
You ready?
Almost.
Thank you.
[grunts softly
I know you tried
to steal from me,
but this is not
how I intended for it to end.
-For Chad to--
-Renner, hey, I know.
I know. I've already
forgiven you for everything.
I know it was an accident.
Thank you for helping me.
For helping us.
Yeah, of course.
Think you can fix it?
Maybe you still got a shot
at the Loebner Prize.
I'm actually not sure
that that's a prize
that I want anymore.
-Enough damage has been done.
-Hm.
I think I will stick with
a good old-fashioned therapist
from now on.
[chuckles] Yeah, one
with actual credentials.
Analog.
Analog.
Can I borrow your computer?
Yeah.
What for?
Finish what I started.
There.
[sighs]
I deleted Salenus
from the server.
I also programed the login
to auto change every minute,
so there's no temptation
to slip back.
[music continues]
Hey.
I'm really proud of you.
[Renner snickers]
What about that?
[Renner]
It'll need to go as well.
Hard drive is still intact,
so, technically, Salenus
is still alive and well.
I'll get it.
Hey, uh, will you hand me
my phone?
Sure.
[exhales]
Is that your mom?
Yeah. Yeah, it is.
You look so happy.
We are.
Yeah.
It's, it's crazy sometimes,
but we are.
Do I make you that happy?
[Jamie moans]
You did.
[banging on door]
-[Jamie breathing heavily]
-[tense music]
-It might be--
-[banging continues]
[Jamie]
Hey, wait. Wait.
Wait. Wait, wait, wait, wait.
-Please, please.
-[man] Who is this chap?
-Get off me!
-[Jamie] Hey, hey, hey, hey.
Please don't hurt him.
Please don't hurt him.
-Please. No. No. No.
-Fuck! Fuck!
He's not gonna say anything.
Please don't hurt him. Please.
Please don't. Please.
Jamie.
I'm sorry.
[somber music]
["I'll Understand" by Roza]
[breathing heavily]
[sniffles]
[sobbing]
The end of the world
at the palm of my hand
When it all goes to hell
Will you still be my friend?
Have to go, have to go
My face to the sea
and my back to the land
And if you can't come
with me, I'll understand
Can we meet in the dark?
We don't have to say much
And if you have to go
have to go
I'll let you go, let you go
I'll let you go, let you go
If we didn't know
what we know
'Cause when
you travel light
Somethings are left behind
It's the end of the world
at the palm of my hand
When it all goes to hell
will you still be my friend?
My face to the sea
my back to the land
If you can't come with me
I'll understand
["This Life of Time" by Flint]
It is all in our hands
It is all in our hands
[whirring loudly]
Alexa, what is on my calendar
for today?
Alexa, reconnect to the network
Renner 5G.
Alexa, what is on my calendar
for today?
[Salenus]
Good morning, James.
Alexa is on permanent leave,
but I'd be more than happy
to help you plan your day.
My name is Salenus.
Where shall we start?