Viewed in
2002, 2004
Premise
In a world where robots look and behave like humans, a family adopts a robot 'boy' who wishes to be human.
Who should watch
Haley Joel Osment fans. Those in the mood for well-acted, but creepy movie.
Thoughts
I think 'creepy' best describes this film. It's not exactly a bad thing, that's often a case for a Stanley Kubrick project.
What stood out the most for me was the superb acting. Haley Joel Osment carried the film with his enthralling, creepy performance. Personally, I found this more challenging and better than when he was in 'The Sixth Sense'. Another great acting job was by Jude Law. He nearly stole the show as a robot designed to be the suavest, sexiest gigolo.
What brought the film down was the long, meandering story. It seemed like the film makers were way too ambitious, and did not want to cut out their favorite scenes, even if it might not fit the big story.
Despite the flaws, I think the premise and acting and creepy mood made the film very interesting and worth checking out. It might have been Kubrick's true vision, but Spielberg does his best tribute to him.
What I would change
Got rid of the third, "happy ending" act.
