Wider than the Sky

What does Sasha Waltz's contemporary dance company have in common with robots controlled by A.I. at ETH in Zürich? Apparently, nothing. Looking more closely though, we discover how scientists “train” their algorithms with thousands of virtual robots who learn and improve by trial and error, like the dancers. Or just like scientists at the Human Brain Project, trying to create the first complete map of the human brain with the help of a powerful A.I. which is inspired… by the human brain itself.

The film unveils surprising facets of artificial intelligence, from secretive “black-box” corporations to artists creating in collaboration with generative A.I., from world champions racing against A.I.-driven drones to human-like robots that claim to have feelings: as bits and pieces of our “soul” are mapped and transferred, we realize the human brain is no longer the only one to be wider than the sky. In this disturbing scenario, artists and scientists share their dream of growing a truly open, transparent A.I. and work together for a better future for humanity.