Doubles, doppelgangers, clones; twin visions have long fascinated many people. It’s strange when technologies that once seemed like science fiction become a reality. A German model named Lale is considering creating a 3D clone of herself, as shown in a documentary by Katharina Pethke. This documentary delves into a new, unsettling reality.
The idea behind the project seems appealing at first glance. The company offering the body scanning service to Lale claims that a 3D clone can work on multiple campaigns without the need for a physical crew, potentially increasing Lale’s earnings. However, it is noteworthy that the examples of 3D avatars provided by the company are all of non-white models.
Given the recent push for more diversity in the fashion and modeling industry, one might wonder if this is a way for brands to appear inclusive without actually diversifying their talent pool. This raises ethical and moral questions that the documentary seems to overlook, especially considering Lale’s Black heritage.
Instead of delving into these complex issues, the documentary primarily focuses on the technical aspects of the cloning process. Lale is seen in nude underwear, surrounded by cameras capturing every detail of her body. Her physical features are then converted into a 2D image on a computer screen, resembling a paper doll with separate parts.
In a somewhat contrived ending, Lale encounters her clone in a forest, emphasizing the tension between nature, humanity, and technology. While the film highlights the eerie aspects of the process, it fails to explore deeper philosophical questions.
The implications of cloning technology and its impact on diversity in the modeling industry are important topics that deserve further examination. As advancements in technology continue to blur the lines between reality and fiction, it is crucial to consider the ethical and moral implications of such innovations. The intersection of race, identity, and technology in the creation of 3D clones raises complex issues that require thoughtful exploration and discussion.
