I, Bored

Rating: 5/10 (1 August 2004)

This movie gave me exactly what I expected, and mind you I didn't expect anything special. It's a lot of special effects, with a jumbled technological plot that posed little interest to me. There have been other films that have explored the idea of either robots or machines taking over the world. "I, Robot" is definitely not an original idea. It has been done before, and in better ways (i.e.: "The Terminator" movies). I've read several comments from people who chose to compliment the special f/x. Yes, they are well-done. The problem is good f/x can never "save" a film for me. Complimenting special f/x is like complimenting someone who just skydived off the Empire State Building and shot an arrow into the Good Year blimp. Sure, it's incredible, but what's the point? F/x are not even somewhat necessary in making a good film. Script and actors are the two elements I favor most, and the script didn't appeal to me. Some of the dialogue is downright awful. To be fair, I'm sure Will Smith was responsible for improvising some of that shoddy dialogue. It's surprising how easily amused people can be. When Smith sneezes and says the line, "Sorry, I'm allergic to bulls**t," a frenzy of laughter arised from the audience in my theater. I, of course, wasn't laughing at that utterly forced, lame piece of dialogue. Smith has talent, but he's at the point in his career where his ego is bringing out the worst in him. He seems to barely make an effort in his role, pumping out stupid one-liners (like the one I just mentioned) even when they have no use in the scene. Bridget Moynahan is one of the most beautiful actresses in the biz right now, and that's why I didn't find her convincing as Smith's co-star. She plays the usual uptight brainiac, who looks more like a Hawaiian Tropic model than a scientist. I doubt an introverted character of her type would have perfectly clear skin. There are much worse movies out there, and I would not classify "I, Robot" as horrible, but it is mediocre and it is dull. And it's not worthy of a strong recommendation. (5 out of 10)