A dramatic look into the world of robotics and a possible glimpse of futuristic society

Rating: 8/10 (10 October 2004)

After seeing the depiction of robots in action in "Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow," I felt I needed to see "I, Robot" in order to be fair (hm, to science, robotics, fantasies).
I really like this Alex Proyas (of "Dark City" 1997) endeavour of "I, Robot" and Will Smith is perfect in the role of detective Spooner, who has gained mutual respect from US Robotics' lead scientist Dr. Alfred Landing (James Cromwell portrays). Bridget Moynahan's underplayed Dr. Susan Calvin may come across almost robotic herself, but gradually, she's warming up to robot 'sonny' (the unique 'son' to Dr. Landing) and Spooner's repeated attempts to open her eyes to the 'truth' of things.
"Sky Captain" is strictly comic book fare, comedic and fun thanks to Gwenyth Paltrow's versatile and generous not-afraid-to-poke-fun-at-herself delivery. It's an enjoyable romp and very stylish-looking illustrative movie adventure with Jude Law as the heroic Cap and sidekick whiz from Giovanni Ribisi, plus fleeting glimpses of Angelina Jolie in spiffy uniform and a bravado eye-patch. The robots come across as rather 'woodenly tame' threats.
"I, Robot" is more serious in theme and respectful in delivering Isaac Asimov's robot concepts. Yes, the film has all the makings of a techno suspense action thriller, with literally massive digital visuals of robots 'acting' en masse. Human touches were not neglected: there's Dr. Landing's sentiments, gentle caring and thoughtfulness felt even behind the façade of the hologram appearance; Sonny's budding emotions and a 'winking' friendliness; Spooner's history and reasons why he 'reacts' to fighting potential 'robot crimes'; Dr. Calvin's seemingly vulnerable side in spite of her high scientific quotient; and the minor fact that there's a flurry lovable cat included in the picture. The film is entertaining in its dramatic plot and turns, spectacular visual effects and also befitting casting. Bruce Greenwood's CEO character might keep one guessing if he's a villain or victim (he was the President in "Thirteen Days" 2000, and a calculating murderer in "Double Jeopardy" 1999.) The film might even raise the question if mankind and robots can live together harmoniously.
A Web search on "Asimov" rendered a lot of online resources accessible for more in-depth information, and there's an interesting collection of Asimov's personal quotes from IMDb database. I appreciate director Chris Columbus' "Bicentennial Man" 1999, lively and well-portrayed lead character by Robin Williams, with Embeth Davidtz, and I posted comments on IMDb 2 Jan 2000.
"I, Robot" is a rewarding film for sci-fi fans for sure, and for fans of Will Smith and filmmaker Alex Proyas.