I, Robot - 2004

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, Mediastream Vierte Film GmbH & Co. Vermarktungs KG, Davis Entertainment

Directed by Alex Proyas

Cast:

• Detective Del Spooner – Will Smith
• Dr. Susan Calvin – Bridget Moynahan
• Sonny – Alan Tudyk
• Dr. Alfred Lanning – James Cromwell
• Lawrence Robertson – Bruce Greenwood
• Gee Gee – Adrian Ricard
• Lt. John Bergin – Chi McBride
• Farber – Shia LeBeouf

Story: In the year 2035, technology has advanced to create affordable robots for almost everyone, and we arrive on the eve of NS-5, the next generation of robots. These robots are programmed with the Three Laws that prevent a robot from harming a human, but Detective Del Spooner doesn't trust them. When the primary creator of the robots is suddenly killed in an apparent suicide, Det. Spooner is sent to investigate, and along with Dr. Calvin, a psychologist working with US Robotics to make the robots seem more human, discovers Sonny, a robot assembled by Dr. Lanning who is able to countermand the three laws. Spooner suspects something is amiss, but his investigation is being thwarted by an unknown force that threatens to kill him, if he doesn't uncover the source of the plot.

Review: Now it is interesting they chose to use Asimov's title for this film, since the plot is actually very loosely drawn from the novel. But seeing as it is an action/adventure film more than a deep exploration in to the human condition, Will Smith is the perfect actor to play the role. If you are looking for action with guns and explosions, this is your film. Bridget Moynahan does a fine job as the dedicated scientist who is unwilling to accept the robots could vary from their programming, until she meets Sonny, played wonderfully by Alan Tudyk. There are enough comic moments and pauses in the action to make the film realistic, but having read the book, I have to say overall it is a disappointment. Notwithstanding, Will Smith is an action hero, and he lives up to his reputation in this remarkable film with amazing special effects. PG-13 is because of language and a brief shot of Will in the shower, but nothing too risque. Entertaining and fun to watch, I recommend this one for a rental, collectible for Sci Fi and Will Smith fans. If you are looking for an interpretation of Asimov's Novel, I suggest Bicentennial Man, starring Robin Williams.