Declan

About the Job

Physical Description: Smart-casual tech-lead look — less hoodie, more untucked oxford, clean sneakers. Slightly rumpled, a little tired around the eyes (he's been building this system). Highly expressive, open face. Glasses optional but they would makes sense with the type. In OK shape, or a little out of shape. We are not looking for super fit guy here, he sits in front of a computer all day and loves it. Character Description: Head of AI / lead developer, and the film's emotional arc. Brilliant, proud of what he's built, defensive when it's challenged — his first instinct is to argue. But he's honest and a builder, so he respects proof; he's the one who gets it first, sits back, and stops fighting. By the end he's the one staring into the screen, changed, carrying the "was he ever really here?" for the audience. Special Notes / Requirements: We live in his reactions more than anyone's — needs a face that reads clearly (doubt → dawning realization → humility). Must play a reasonable, likable skeptic, not a strawman, so his conversion means something. Featured in the cold open, the mechanism beat, and the ending.