Robots

Last night (March 11 2005 at 9:15pm), I visited my local cinema at Coral Ridge Mall to view a new movie released called Robots on its opening day. The mall where the theatre resides has had posters for this film plastered throughout the rafters every 5 steps for over a month, so I had ample opportunity to wait for its release (and know the date of the release for that matter). I also was given the chance to see the various important robot voices/characters for it due to these posters, which told me how many famous people would be doing the various voice overs.

The main character is Rodney Copperbottom who is voiced by Ewan McGregor when he reaches adulthood. Starting in Rodney's small hometown, the movie lends a soft focus to give the animated feature a more life-like atmosphere (it is as if the camera is actually paning the various locations and focusing in on events along the way). The opening scenes are very cute with the baby's creation. As the movie progresses, the scenes are rich with beautiful animations throughout. The transportation system scene, where Rodney meets up with Fender (Robin Williams) to get to Robot City, contains some of the best animations of the film. Another scene with dominoes is also very nicely done.

The star of this film is most certainly Robin Williams despite the cast billing. The best scenes, lines and animations are where he is present. His character is funny and unique. Rodney is a nice guy, but Fender is a fun guy. Williams has played this type of character in a lot of movies, though, so it isn't any revelation that he does a good job playing these lines nor a great surprise he was picked for the role.

I enjoyed the movie and would be willing to see it again on DVD, but it wouldn't be one that is good enough as a repeat in the theatre. The animations were fine, but I actually found Shrek 2 better in that category and enjoyed it more in comparison. This movie lacked enough singularity to really be considered a good film, and the story wasn't deep enough to make up for it. As such, I am going to rate it as a solid okay for an average rank.

Please feel free to comment on this review or on the movie itself at the forum thread devoted to it at this location.