Tubi is officially on my blacklist.
For years, I’ve been a loyal fan of the free streaming service, charmed by its vast and eclectic library that spans everything from Hollywood blockbusters to obscure cinematic gems. Sure, the platform relies on ads, but as that iconic final line from Some Like It Hot—which you can stream on Tubi—reminds us: “Nobody’s perfect.”
However, Tubi recently squandered that goodwill with its announcement regarding a new AI chatbot integration. In a statement dripping with the sort of sterile corporate jargon that feels suspiciously like it was written by an algorithm, the company’s chief product officer noted: “As chatbots and AI agents become a standard tool for navigating the web, Tubi is evolving its discovery experience to meet users exactly where they are—when they are ready to express their preferences in their own words.”
In plain English? Tubi is introducing an AI conversationalist to help you decide what to watch.
Not only does this move encourage us to further outsource our critical thinking to sycophantic large language models, but it also feels remarkably tone-deaf given the sheer number of films in Tubi’s library that serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of artificial intelligence. Before this chatbot inevitably pulls a “Skynet,” here are five anti-AI films available on Tubi that both viewers—and the platform’s executives—should revisit.
5 RoboCop (1987)
The 1987 action masterpiece RoboCop tells the story of an officer killed in the line of duty, only to be resurrected as a cybernetic law enforcement unit. RoboCop is ruthlessly efficient, yet entirely hollow, lacking the human empathy that once defined him. At its core, the film is a struggle to reclaim humanity from the cold grip of robotics—a message that Tubi seems determined to ignore.
Let’s not forget the infamous ED-209 sequence, where a malfunctioning robot security guard turns a boardroom meeting into a tragedy. I’m not saying Tubi’s chatbot will start brandishing heavy weaponry, but I’m certainly not going to be the one to give it administrative access.
4 Maximum Overdrive (1986)
The sole directorial effort from Stephen King features a world where machinery gains sentience after Earth passes through the wake of a rogue comet. From killer monster trucks to aggressive electric knives and murderous vending machines, the film is a masterclass in technological paranoia. It’s as anti-tech as it gets—unless, of course, you’re also worried about comets.
3 Logan’s Run (1976)
Set in the year 2274, this film paints a picture of a futuristic utopia managed by a benevolent AI called “Deep Sleep.” It seems like paradise, where citizens are free to indulge in every whim. The catch? Upon turning 30, citizens are “renewed” in the Carrousel—a ritual that is secretly a mass-extermination program designed to maintain population control.
It’s a perfect example of that signature, ruthlessly logical “AI efficiency” that humanity seems so eager to embrace.
2 The Lawnmower Man (1992)
Science fiction is littered with “well-intentioned” technology that ultimately spirals out of control. In The Lawnmower Man, a scientist uses cutting-edge VR technology to enhance the cognitive abilities of an intellectually disabled gardener. The experiment is a success, until the gardener gains god-like telekinetic powers and goes on a rampage.
Now, Tubi is dangling an AI chatbot in front of us, promising a better viewing experience. The intentions may seem benign, but can the platform guarantee we won’t descend into madness after interacting with its interface? Their press release suspiciously omits that concern.
1 Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla (2002)
Mechagodzilla was built to be humanity’s savior. In this 2002 sequel, Japanese forces construct a robotic guardian using the skeletal remains of the original Godzilla to defend Tokyo against a new kaiju threat.
The conflict inevitably escalates when the new Godzilla’s roar triggers the dormant memories of its predecessor trapped within the machine. Mechagodzilla loses control, leading to mass destruction across the city.
Sure, you could argue that the machine is eventually repaired and fulfills its purpose, but look at the collateral damage involved. Personally, I’d rather not risk the structural integrity of my living room just to get a movie recommendation. I’ll stick to the search bar, thank you very much.
Source: Polygon
