Bicentennial Man Movie Review 1999

Robin Williams is Andrew, a domestic robot of the near-future. When he's purchased by the Martin family, they notice that he's different than most robots. He exhibits compassion, as well as other human qualities. Led by Sir, the father (Niell) they help to further Andrew's growth. As time goes on, Andrew continues to develop past his programming, and eventually seeks his freedom and the pursuit of a more human form. The first hour deals mostly with a very leisurely character development, with some amusing moments. The problems occur when the film turns to the serious questions of immortality, defining humanity, and the rights of artificial entities. Director Columbus opts for sentiment and empty platitudes instead of exploring the questions the film raises.

Distribution

Buena Vista Home Entertainment, 500 S. Buena Vista St., Burbank, CA 91521-1120, Toll-free: 800-723-4763, URL: http://www.bvhe.com

Available on VHS, DVD
Running time 131 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Books to Film: Isaac Asimov, Robots & Androids, Sci Fi, Technology--Rampant, Future Shock

Screenplay

Nicholas Kazan

Cast

Robin Williams, Embeth Davidtz, Sam Neill, Wendy Crewson, Hallie Kate Eisenberg, Oliver Platt, Stephen (Steve) Root, Lynne Thigpen, Bradley Whitford, Kiersten Warren, John Michael Higgins, George D. Wallace

Cinematography

Phil Meheux

Director

Chris Columbus

Music

James Horner

Producer

Touchstone Pictures, Columbia Pictures, 1492 Films, Buena Vista