Teknolust is a 2002 American film written, produced, and directed by Lynn Hershman Leeson who, at the time of production, was working in the art department at University of California, Davis. The film stars Tilda Swinton and Jeremy Davies.
Lynn Hershman Leeson's art project "Agent Ruby" was an expansion inspired by this film. "Agent Ruby" used artificial intelligence to hold conversations with online users. These conversations shaped Agent Ruby's memory, knowledge, and moods.
Synopsis
The film is about the scientist Rosetta Stone (Swinton) who injects her DNA into three Self Replicating Automatons (S.R.A.s). These cyborg clones must habitually venture into the real world in order to obtain a supply of Y chromosome in the form of semen to keep them alive. Unfortunately, their periodic treks into the outside world seem to leave the males from whom they obtain the chromosome with a strange virus that overtakes both their bodies and their computers. The lust carries over into the technology, leaving the males' world aghast.
Cast
| Role | Actor | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rosetta Stone/Marinne/Olive/Ruby | Tilda Swinton | Named for the Rosetta Stone |
| Sandy | Jeremy Davies | |
| Agent Hopper | James Urbaniak | |
| Professor Crick | John O'Keefe | |
| Dirty Dick | Karen Black | |
| Dr. Bea | Al Nazemian | |
| Dr. Aye | S.U. Violet | |
| Tim | Josh Kornbluth | |
| Preacher | Thomas Jay Ryan | |
| Nelia | Sumalee Montano | Uncredited role |
Awards and nominations
- Fantasporto International Fantasy Film Award 2004 - Best Film (nominated)
- Hamptons International Film Festival 2002 - Feature Film Prize in Science and Technology (won)
