It's Not An Adaptation. It's a Tribute.

Rating: 10/10 (6 February 2006)

As long as you remember that, I think you'll be impressed.
Because really, this movie is surprisingly well-done, and the Asimovian themes resonate even moreso today than they did when he first wrote his stories. It's more than another expensive, retina-burning sci-fi fireball; "I, Robot" is a commentary on everything from the impact of new technology to what the concepts we call "freedom" and "humanity" really mean.
The CGI is definitely some of the best out there, and the performances are nailed perfectly. Moynahan manages to play Susan Calvin as coldly as the robots she programs without looking wooden, and she beautifully weaves the character's detached nature with the occasional seeps of emotion. One of his best performances ever, Will Smith delivers both humor and poignancy in his role as Del Spooner. The tough exterior isn't too scratchy, and he doesn't overdo the angst, either. But I think the best performance of all goes to Sonny, the loose-cannon robot and suspected villain for most of the film. Alan Tudyk delivers the voice of a lifelike, free-thinking machine with all the balance and poise of a master. A true gem if there ever was one.
At the heart of this movie are two questions: 1) is there a difference between a human being, and a machine that imitates one in every observable manner?, and 2) what is the point at which our dependence on technology supersedes our freedom (and sanity)? As complex questions as they are, this movie is hardly pretentious in its answers. Then again, it's hard to be pretentious with Will Smith in the lead.
Overall, beautifully done. A must-see for people who like their explosions big and their philosophies deep.