The Final Cut

As a young boy, Alan Hakman witnesses a traumatic event when his friend falls to his death while they are playing in an abandoned building. This incident leaves a lasting scar on Alan, shaping his views and emotions as he grows older.

In the present day, a revolutionary technology called Zoe chips is introduced. These chips are implanted in individuals at birth, recording their lives and allowing families to edit and screen these videos at their funerals.

Alan works as a video editor, or 'cutter', focusing on processing the recordings created by Zoe chips. His job requires him to interview families to understand which memories should be highlighted for their loved ones' final screenings.

Over time, Alan becomes emotionally detached, focusing on creating a favorable portrayal of the deceased individuals. This transformation leads him to neglect the authenticity of their lives, resulting in a cold and ruthless demeanor.

Alan's life takes a dramatic turn when he uncovers a memory related to his childhood friend, whom he believed to be dead. This revelation sparks a determination in him to locate his friend's Zoe chip to understand what really happened.

As Alan investigates, he discovers that 80% of the population does not have Zoe chips implanted. This fact complicates his search and emphasizes the limitations and disparities of this technology.

In a surprising twist, Alan stumbles upon his own recording. He reviews the footage from that tragic day, and it reveals startling truths about his memories, including the shocking realization that the 'blood' he remembered was actually paint.

Alan's journey intensifies when he faces a group of activists who demand that the life of his deceased subject be made public. This confrontation raises critical questions about privacy, memory, and ethical representation.

As the activists grow increasingly aggressive, Alan finds himself fighting for his life. The tension escalates as he attempts to navigate the moral implications of his work and the secrets he uncovers.

In a horrifying climax, Alan is fatally shot by an activist who rationalizes the act as justifiable. This tragic event underscores the consequences of Alan's choices and the stark reality of the world he inhabits.

The aftermath of Alan's death leaves a profound impact on those around him, prompting reflection on the ethical dimensions of memory and representation in the age of Zoe chips. His legacy forces others to confront the implications of their own choices.