RATED PG-13 FOR ROBOT VIOLENCE*

Rating: Null/10 (24 July 2004)

I ROBOT, based on the novel by Isaac Asimov, (which I've never read) is certainly one of the better summer action movies to come along. The effects, as well as the storyline are top notch. Will Smith gives a fine performance as a technophobic Chicago cop in the year 2035 investigating a suicide/murder supposedly committed by an all too human mech named Sonny, a cross between C3PO and The Terminator. ******POSSIBLE MINOR SPOILERS***** Throughout much of the movie, it looks as if the same tired formula found in countless cop thrillers is used here, namely:
1. Cop investigates supposed suicide of a prominent official. 2. Cop suspects powerful CEO or well respected political figure. 3. Cop's superior takes him off the case under threat of suspension or termination. 4. Cop ignores order and is forced to turn in his badge and weapon. 5. Cop continues investigation on his own, takes out CEO or political figure in a gun battle. 6. Cop wins back badge as well as the respect of superior and peers.
(This was also used in the NAKED GUN series as well).
HOWEVER, IT DOESN'T QUITE TURN OUT THAT WAY HERE!
This is what sets I,ROBOT apart from other movies of it's kind.
If you're into a high-tech sci-fi action flick, then I, ROBOT is for you.
Rating: ****1/2 out of *****
*No robots were harmed in the making of this film.