A film review by Sam Floeter Copyright © 2000 Sam Floeter

I went into the theatre with no idea about what to expect from this movie. I hadn't seen any previews, nor had I read any reviews. Of course, I knew that Robin Williams could be counted on to give a strong performance no matter what role he portrays, but what interested me most was the idea of Williams in a Science Fiction film based on the writings of Issac Asimov (who is reputed to be the grandfather of all Sci-Fi with his Robot series still selling like crazy on the shelves). However, about thirty minutes into the movie, it became apparent that the film "Bicentennial Man" is about more than just one man. It is a philosophical epic. More of a thinking mans movie and a light hearted comedy than it is a Sci Fi action adventure.

The films time line spans just under two hundred years. The main character is a robot named "Andrew" played by Robin Williams. Initially a service droid designed to carry out menial household tasks, Andrew is purchased by a wealthy family man played by Sam Neil. Through most of his life span, the family man is only known as "Sir", his wife "Maam", his oldest daughter "Miss" and the youngest "Little Miss". After a few years it becomes apparent that Andrew has developed a unique consciousness and not wanting to exploit it, "Sir" decides to teach Andrew about everything there is to being human, even "the birds and the bees". This leads to very funny scenes where Robin Williams gets to show boat his comical genius. The movie carries on in this fashion, between sixteen year increments, and each time we revisit the family, Andrew gains new insight into humanity which eventually leads him question his own values and motives. From being "free" to having internal organs, Andrews quest for semblance in a changing world provides the main plot for "Bicentennial Man". The film eventually turns into a love story between the granddaughter of "Little Miss" and Andrew himself, who by this time, has become an immortal human of the flesh without the title. The end of the film explores the meaning of death as a necessary transition from life.

All in all, the film was brilliant. There is absolutely no violence in
Bicentennial Man, so if you were looking for a "Blade Runner" or a "2001" you wont find it here. I enjoyed the way the film kept a pace. Each time it jumps twenty years or so into the future, you are always curious about what to expect. Also, the special effects are thrown in to provide the foundation of the story line and to enhance the subtlety of social change as time moves forward, rather than being thrown in for shock value. If you are looking for a light hearted philosophical comedy, perhaps you should look for "Bicentennial Man."

	Running Time: 133 Min | Rated PG | US Release: December 17th | More >>

Related Links:

• Official Site
• Ultimate Robin Williams Website
• Upcomingmovies.com: Bicentennial Man
• Northern California Movies: Bicentennial Man

One robot's 200 year journey to become an ordinary man.