In a bold departure from typical February romantic offerings, "Love and Technology" presents an unflinching look at a marriage in crisis. Directed by Susanna Cappellaro, in her directorial debut, the documentary examines the unraveling relationship between American music industry executive Scott Cohen and his wife, Susanna. As they navigate personal transformations with body modifications, the couple's marriage is depicted as "bleeding out" from small, yet significant, cuts. This documentary offers a stark counterpoint to the usual Valentine's fare, diving deep into themes of motivation, communication, and the superficiality of modern relationships.
Scott Cohen, intrigued by the possibilities of technology, takes the bold step of attaching a compass to his body. This permanent fixture provides a haptic buzz that always indicates true north, granting him what he sees as a new sixth sense, akin to becoming a cyborg. Meanwhile, Susanna Cappellaro, also an actor known for her roles in Tim Burton and Peter Strickland films, engages in her own experiment. She chooses to have magnets inserted into her fingertips, though the reasons behind her decision remain unclear.
The documentary meticulously observes how these decisions impact their marriage. As Scott and Susanna embark on their respective journeys towards self-modification, the film reveals the underlying fractures in their relationship. It critiques their interactions and highlights a lack of motivation and communication that contributes to the deterioration of their bond.
Susanna Cappellaro's directorial debut does not shy away from portraying the raw and intimate details of a marriage in turmoil. The film paints a poignant picture of how two individuals, seemingly focused on enhancing themselves through technology, ultimately drift apart. It serves as a commentary on how modern relationships can become ensnared in superficial pursuits, often neglecting the deeper emotional connections that sustain them.