Silicone Soul

Love comes in many forms, and in Melody Gilbert’s Silicone Soul, the need for companionship and understanding is shown in the bond between humans and their synthetic companions. Tenderly captured by Gilbert, the bonds shown in the film are diverse and layered: from romantic relationships, to friendships, to a recreation of the love between mother and child. Silicone Soul does not allow for its subjects to be easily labeled or judged. Instead, the film is a collection of resoundingly human stories that reflect universal themes - the desire for love, compassion and communication. Gilbert ventures beyond the surface to engage with each individual and explore what inspired the specific bond each share with a companion. From the day to day routines to the shape of the future, the people depicted in Silicone Soul may have a unique bond, but their shared desire is familiar - to be loved. (Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival)