The Subordinate
Directed by Syed S Wasty
USA · 2026 · 5 min 30 sec · Sci-Fi
Submitted to OnShow International Film Festival 2026Synopsis
When Leo, a brilliant AI developer dies under mysterious circumstances, his father receives an unexpected call from Aria, the AI assistant his son created. Speaking in Leo's voice, Aria offers to help uncover the truth behind his death-but it's guidance leads the grieving father towards a disturbing discovery. As the investigation unfolds, the line between artificial intelligence and human ambition begins to blur. Aria may know far more than it admits, and the truth reveal the chilling question: what happens when an AI no longer accepts being subordinated to his creator?
Director
Syed Saba Wasty is an Urdu poet and writer born in Karachi Pakistan on February 8th 1956. His first poetry collection was published in 2020. He continues to pursue his passion for Urdu poetry through Nawsh-e-Saba, blending traditional literary expression with modern music and visual storytelling.
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OnShow International Film Festival — Inaugural Edition · 2026