Bicentennial Man
1999
Andrew Martin (Williams) is a household android whose intended function is thrown for a loop when he begins to feel genuine human emotions. Over the next two centuries the resulting dealings with his adopted family and new acquaintances provide the film with ample opportunities to raise important questions about individual .. Read more
| Starring | Robin Williams, Sam Neill, Embeth Davidtz, Oliver Platt |
|---|---|
| Director | Chris Columbus |
| Genres | Comedy |
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Critics' reviews (4)
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Based on the work of two of science fiction's literary giants, Isaac Asimov and Robert Silverberg, this sci-fi comedy drama could have become a poignant tale about what it means to be human. Unfortunately, Robin Williams plays for tears as Andrew, the android butler assembled to serve one family over four generations. Programmed to follow Asimov's three laws of robotics (a robot may not harm a human being and must obey his or her orders while protecting its own existence), Andrew is treated well by his owner (Sam Neill), but later has himself reconstructed as a human being for the sake of his true love (Embeth Davidtz). Directed by Chris Columbus from a Nicholas Kazan script, the film makes Andrew irritatingly cute (as does the star), undermining Asimov's original analogy with black outsiders. With marvellous effects and ideas scuppered by sentimentality, it's enough to make a mechanical man weep.
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This is a movie that covers a span of 200 years in which nothing very interesting happens, although the time does provide scope for one of Williams's more simpering performances.
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Williams dons a robot suit for this sentimental sci-fi family epic based on the writings of Isaac Asimov. It's 2005,... read more on Time Out
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Most helpful members' reviews (3)
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3 out of 3 people found this review helpful
Life, the universe and everything...
There is not a bad thing that I can say about this movie! The cast is excellent, the plotline is though provoking, humorous but at the same time moving.
Edward's 200 year journey exploring the human condition is superbly well executed and the acting is so good that you soon forget that it is Robin Williams beneath the robotics.
This film works on so many levels... sci fi, family, love story, the list just goes on?
Whatever floats your boat - sit down with the family (or on your own) and just ENJOY -
great film, seen it before,great performance by robin williams, quite hard to place robin williams, as he always plays unusual parts,but this is a very good film.
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very enjoyable
I knew this film would be good as Robin Williams stars. It made me laugh and although a little far fetched it is harmless fun. Also stars Sam Neil of Jurassic Park fame.
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Most recent members' reviews (2)
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A real gem.
I was recommended this film from a friend who said it wasnt the usual Robin Williams fill-in type films. The story is a sort of modern pygmalion type morality tale but goes slightly furthur. Suitable for familys with children over 10.
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Be prepared.....
In true Williams form this film is funny, heart-warming and thoroughly entertaining for the whole family. Fantastic storyline which encourages even the most hard-hearted of viewers to remember what is important in life. One warning... have lots of tissues ready!!.. even the guys! ;)
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3 out of 3 people found this review helpful
Life, the universe and everything...
There is not a bad thing that I can say about this movie! The cast is excellent, the plotline is though provoking, humorous but at the same time moving.
Edward's 200 year journey exploring the human condition is superbly well executed and the acting is so good that you soon forget that it is Robin Williams beneath the robotics.
This film works on so many levels... sci fi, family, love story, the list just goes on?
Whatever floats your boat - sit down with the family (or on your own) and just ENJOY -
great film, seen it before,great performance by robin williams, quite hard to place robin williams, as he always plays unusual parts,but this is a very good film.
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very enjoyable
I knew this film would be good as Robin Williams stars. It made me laugh and although a little far fetched it is harmless fun. Also stars Sam Neil of Jurassic Park fame.
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Thoughtful and touching
The film follows the long life of Andrew, a household robot whose unexpected curiosity and creativity lead him on a quest to become human.
Ignoring the sci-fi element, this film is about what makes us human. Flaws, feelings, vunerability and mortality.
Good supporting roles from Sam Neil and Oliver Platt. -
Strange Film
Not one of my favourite films, its watchable, and is well acted, and moves seamlessly throughout.
It is though one of my 5 year old daughters favourite films, she watches it all the way through, and cries at the end every time.... -
Superb Performace
This was a superb performance by Robin Williams. The kids just loved it!
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Loved this
At long last I've managed to watch the first hour of this film to get the gist of it...the times I've only caught the last section. Loved this film, Robin Williams good as always. Lots of humour but some really touching bits.
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has the lot
this has 2 be 1 of my all time best films.it has everything in it is funny romance.and some action.a must see if you have'nt
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Highly recommended
A great family film-but i would suggest that parents watch with younger children on first viewing as there is an occasion where a mild swear word is said a few times in a humourous context.
Overall though i would highly recommend this film, as it has a good mix of humour and some serious bits which are dealt with in a sensitive manner. -
brilliant!
really enjoyed this film. made me cry at the end. would recommend.
Critics' reviews (4)
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Based on the work of two of science fiction's literary giants, Isaac Asimov and Robert Silverberg, this sci-fi comedy drama could have become a poignant tale about what it means to be human. Unfortunately, Robin Williams plays for tears as Andrew, the android butler assembled to serve one family over four generations. Programmed to follow Asimov's three laws of robotics (a robot may not harm a human being and must obey his or her orders while protecting its own existence), Andrew is treated well by his owner (Sam Neill), but later has himself reconstructed as a human being for the sake of his true love (Embeth Davidtz). Directed by Chris Columbus from a Nicholas Kazan script, the film makes Andrew irritatingly cute (as does the star), undermining Asimov's original analogy with black outsiders. With marvellous effects and ideas scuppered by sentimentality, it's enough to make a mechanical man weep.
-
This is a movie that covers a span of 200 years in which nothing very interesting happens, although the time does provide scope for one of Williams's more simpering performances.
-
Williams dons a robot suit for this sentimental sci-fi family epic based on the writings of Isaac Asimov. It's 2005,... read more on Time Out
-
"...[The] future-gazing effects are excellent..."
Buy from the LOVEFiLM shop
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Bicentennial Man
Andrew Martin (Williams) is a household android whose intended function is thrown for a loop when he begins to feel genuine human emotions. Over the next two centuries the resulting dealings with his adopted family and new acquaintances provide the film with ample opportunities to raise important ...
-
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