Echoes of Tomorrow
Echoes of Tomorrow is a captivating play that delves into the intersection of humanity and technology, set against the backdrop of the sprawling city of Tomorrowland. This futuristic tale explores the consequences of embracing augmented reality and the unforeseen challenges that arise when the boundaries between the physical and digital realms blur.
Exhibited at BBC Television Centre
Introduced as a Teaching Material in the Open Day and “Digital Storytelling” Course of RCA
Context and Audience
Inspired by the novel THE VELDT, the video entitled Echoes of Tomorrow explores the complex relationship between humans and technology. The futuristic setting of "Tomorrow's World" is a metaphor for the advances in augmented reality and artificial intelligence. The video's target audience includes those fascinated by the intersection of technology and the human experience, as well as those interested in the ethical implications of embracing innovative technology. I will also be dubbing the video in multiple languages and putting it on video platforms to test the audience's reaction to the video.
Research and Ethics
In previous research, scholar Parekh argued that augmented reality (AR) offers unique entertainment options unavailable in traditional digital media, with future AR systems likely to become even more advanced. The creation of Echoes of Tomorrow draws on research in AR, AI, and their societal impacts, incorporating ethical concerns around emerging technologies. The play explores unintended consequences of technological integration, as a sentient virus disrupts Emily's AR, raising questions about privacy, autonomy, and the risks of rapid AI advancement. It prompts the audience to reflect on the ethical implications of adopting technology without fully grasping its impact on identity and society.
Critical Reflection
Video, as a medium, offers broad accessibility and reach, allowing the work to be shared across platforms and reach a global audience. This scalability ensures that the narrative and its themes contribute to a wider discourse on the intersection of humanity and technology. Using emoticons and digital expressions within augmented reality advances the plot and comments on the evolving nature of human interaction in a tech-driven world. This invites audiences to reflect on how communication blurs between physical and digital realms.
The interactive elements align with Tomorrowland’s futuristic theme, serving as both narrative tools and metaphors for the convergence of physical and digital worlds. Holographic displays, interactive elements, and augmented reality deepen the viewer’s experience, while the narrative’s ethical reflections encourage a thoughtful approach to emerging technologies.