If we had to judge by the current slate of dramatic shows and movies, we would think our technology is going to turn on us at literally any moment. Which… well, maybe. But hopefully not. Still, as technology gets smarter and even artificial intelligence warns us against itself, we can see why the topic engages our imagination. But the latest show to take on the “A.I. goes bad and tries to ruin our life” conceit has something new up its sleeve. Or someone new, rather. In Mrs. Davis, Betty Gilpin will take on an all-powerful artificial intelligence, and she’ll play a warrior nun. Take a look at the trailer for the series.
And listen, if our world was threatened, we’d back anyone who wanted to help save it, especially Betty Gilpin. The idea of a warrior nun does evoke a certain curiosity, though. Then again, faith has traditionally been a fierce motivator. Still, we imagine nuns as more peaceable characters. So the image of one taking to the battlefield feels striking. Deadline shares, “Mrs. Davis is described as an exploration of faith versus technology—an epic battle of biblical and binary proportions. Gilpin will play a nun who goes to battle against an all-powerful Artificial Intelligence.” Or, as the official description notes:
“Mrs. Davis” is the world’s most powerful Artificial Intelligence. Simone is the nun devoted to destroying Her. Who ya got?
Faith vs. science also has a lot to offer thematically. And we don’t yet know what angle the show will take in unpacking it. But we do know the trailer for Mrs. Davis is a lot of fun and pretty cheery for such high stakes. We can see how an all-powerful artificial intelligence could accidentally become a higher power. But what is the holy grail Simone the nun needs to find? We guess we’ll have to see where this all ends.
All we know is that Gilpin is a nun you don’t want to mess with. Additionally, the series will land on Peacock, releasing April 20th. And Tara Hernandez and Damon Lindelof will write and executive produce it. Additionally, “Hernandez serves as showrunner.” And Owen Harris “will direct and executive produce multiple episodes, including the first episode, of the series.” Harris’ work on Black Mirror seems relevant here too.
We can’t wait to see what’s in store for Betty Gilpin’s warrior nun. If we can’t have more Glow, we will take what we can get. Maybe this nun likes to roller skate.
Originally published on March 20, 2022.
