Cover Behind the scenes of 'The Lonely Bot' (Photo: Courtesy of GoTyme Bank)
Behind the scenes of 'The Lonely Bot' (Photo: Courtesy of GoTyme Bank)
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Produced by GoTyme Bank, this bite-sized flick packs a moving and relatable punch while illustrating the bank’s commitment to excellent customer service
Amidst the steady rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and smart gadgets, the digital sphere has become a perpetual companion. These days, we not only use it to communicate with one another and access a treasure trove of information; it also enables us to work more efficiently and harness our creativity among so much more.
Yet, our increasing reliance on today’s technology equally begs the question: are we losing the quality of our human connections? In an era where authenticity is hard to come by, we risk forgoing the richness of personal interaction and meaningful conversations, the very bedrock of a lasting relationship.
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This is what GoTyme Bank—a joint venture between the Gokongwei Group and Tyme Group, a Singaporean digital banking group focused on emerging markets—and film director Rajay Singh sought to explore in a short film called The Lonely Bot, recently released online and screened in Robinsons Movieworld cinemas nationwide.
No longer than two minutes, the touching watch follows an abandoned robot as it suddenly springs back to life, only to find that its old companion is too far gone. “Roboto” continues to wander an unfamiliar world, in search of someone with whom it might find a real connection again.
Above A still of 'The Lonely Bot' (Photo: Courtesy of GoTyme Bank)
A still of 'The Lonely Bot' (Photo: Courtesy of GoTyme Bank)
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“The inspiration from the film came from this very human feeling of suddenly finding yourself in a world that’s more and more digital and tech-driven by the day,” Singh relayed. “Though we all grew up with some measure of digital technology, many of us still remember a time before the internet swallowed the world…We wanted the film to highlight a truth: no matter how greatly the world changes, one thing will remain constant—the desire to connect and be understood by another human.”
Along with that sentiment, the producers of the short opted out of computer-generated imagery (CGI), choosing instead to feature a real robot in its scenes. “While 3D and CGI are amazing, nothing beats doing things in [front of the] camera,” added Singh. “Also, I was going for emotional honesty, and a real robot would make a difference to the story. You can’t substitute reality with technology, just like you can’t truly substitute a real human’s voice.”
Above Behind the scenes of 'The Lonely Bot' (Photo: Courtesy of GoTyme Bank)
Above Behind the scenes of 'The Lonely Bot' (Photo: Courtesy of GoTyme Bank)
Behind the scenes of 'The Lonely Bot' (Photo: Courtesy of GoTyme Bank)
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The final seconds of the film similarly impart a striking quote: “The more digital the world becomes, the more human a bank needs to be.” This is the core messaging of GoTyme Bank’s newest campaign, as it embraces the challenge and responsibility of being a premier digital bank.
The first in the Philippines with a “phygital” model, the company seamlessly interweaves the convenience of digital technology and human-led touchpoints in its operations. This delicate balancing act is present from the moment a client opens an account, with over 900 GoTyme Bank ambassadors available to assist via kiosks throughout the country.
Above GoTyme Bank ambassadors are ready to assist at kiosks around the country (Photo: Courtesy of GoTyme Bank)
GoTyme Bank ambassadors are ready to assist at kiosks around the country (Photo: Courtesy of GoTyme Bank)
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As patrons continue their financial journeys, GoTyme Bank promises no chatbots or call menus, ensuring that one personal banker will be ready to help address one’s concerns. This personal banker is likewise prepared to respond to a chat in one minute, pick up a call in two minutes, or revert via email or direct message on social media within three hours.
This brand of prompt customer service—the type you can rely on to call, email, or chat with 24/7—is genuinely refreshing from the slew of automated responses that many of us have become accustomed to in this day and age.
“Our mission has always been clear: provide next-level banking to all Filipinos so they can unlock their financial potential,” shared GoTyme Bank chief executive officer Nate Clarke. “Today we pledge that in every customer touchpoint, a helpful human will be there for you.” Co-CEO Albert Tinio added, “At the core of human banking is communication, building connections, and solving issues. Our promise is to provide you with the best customer service: a banking experience deeply rooted in empathy, care, and human excellence.”
Above Press play and watch ‘The Lonely Bot’ here
To experience GoTyme Bank’s exceptional customer service, download the GoTyme Bank app or visit any kiosks nationwide to open your own GoTyme Bank account and get your free Visa Debit Card in under five minutes. Visit gotyme.com.ph for more information. Follow @gotymebank on social media for the latest updates and promos.
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Trained as a student journalist, Mac’s knack for writing was a serendipitous discovery. Years later and she can’t imagine doing anything else. When she isn’t typing away on a story, she revels in being lost in a new city, revisiting a cosy film or sitcom, and idling away with her dogs.
