Robot Dreams

Hats off to director Pablo Berger for bringing Sara Varon's graphic novel to life in such a moving way. It revolves around the themes of friendship, longing, betrayal, and healing; plus, it has a dog and a robot as protagonists. Set in '80s NYC, the silent 2D-animated flick exudes a resonating hand-drawn charm, with the city's cosmopolitanism showcased to remarkably messy effect. I've taken a liking to ambitious filmmakers attempting to bring childrens' graphic novels to life, but with the realization that the underlying subject matter always finds greater relatability within adults.

Friendship (no matter the circumstances, and between whoever) is always something that'll immediately grab our attention, and that's the case here too. The film is adorably punctuated by great music, and I like to think, at times, there's nothing better than music to put emotions across. The visuals are filled with retro NYC essentials, and since Dog is a snacker, it shouldn't surprise you that there's plenty of food and beverages on display. I mention this because the film also left me reasonably hungry (and craving a hot dog and a pack of Flamin' Cheetos!).

The protagonists get separated quite early on, and you can draw easily parallels to real-world situations. Dog is trying to find new friends, and going on new adventures, and some of these chapters (or subplots) have that episodic quality to them. Not all of them contribute to the plot, such as the skiing adventure-turned-mishap, but they indicate the passage of time. On the other hand, Robot is left all alone on the beach, with only his dreams for company. The dream sequences have a likeable charm to them, even when you know they're just "dreams" (read: wishful thinking). The episode with the family of birds was wonderful, and one of the most memorable stretches in the film alongside the achingly beautiful finale.

The characters are super cute. Despite not having any dialogues, it's able to capture a lot of charm about them.

However, this movie is clearly a short story concept idea that was forcibly stretched to 1 hour and 43 minutes.

It's cute, but if you want excitement, this movie isn't it. I feel this is one of those movies you would watch at midnight with less distraction/to go to sleep.

Kids may not get it, but this movie is clearly a symbolism/message/made that people come and go in life (ie: the birds/family); or if you're in a first relationship that you can't get over with (ie: 500 Days of Summer)

The actions of the dog can be pretty frustrating to watch.

Overall, it's a cute "short film" that is pretty overstretched with some mundane scenes; you can interpret the movie to a deeper meaning; if you also live in New York/love New York or love the song 'Earth, Wind & Fire - September' then this movie is for you.

This film left me in a state of odd emotion.

It really draws you in with its clever animation, and loveable characters.

Ive been in Dogs shoes, and I'm sure a lot of people can relate to the feeling of loneliness, and longing for connection.

When dog finally takes action, and purchaces Robot and builds his friend, it seems like they will be friends forever.

The journey that they both take is entertaining, sad at times, but shows exactly how life can be.

The end might not be what you were hoping for, but it's a realistic situation that anyone would have a hard time to accept.

I thoroughly enjoyed this film. My only complaint was the length. I feel like the same story could have been told with less filler for that 90 movie run time.

This movie is basically the animated version of Past Lives.

In all seriousness, this movie was deeply beautiful. A great story about friendship, loss, and life with simple colorful animation that is carried with great direction film Filmmaker Pablo Berger, two likable characters, and great emotional depth and cores in the setting.

The writing explores many themes that were simple, yet emotional, touching, and engaging as the writing provides strong senses of atmospheres and fun characters to observe. I found myself being really emotionally connected with the characters, the settings, and I never thought I would honestly tear up about a dog and a robots friendship in my life. The animation is good and while it is simple, the setting and tone fits the animation style which worked pretty well.

With very little dialogue, it creates a very interesting atmosphere approach to the setting and characters and it worked. Alongside with good humor, good musical soundtracks, and sound designs. I really appreciate the filmmaker and others making this movie for creating an animation movie with great emotions, themes, and takes that most animated movies now are probably a little scared to go towards.

Despite being nominated for Oscar, it's honestly a shame this movie isn't talked much because this movie really deserves more recognition to the public. Definitely would be one of my top favorite films of 2023.

The movie touches moving, universal themes such as: the power of connection, the essence of knowing someone who helps you discover the world with new eyes, and the painful absurdities of fate. The animation has beautiful details, rich in color and details, delightfully lit. It's amazing that such a simple style of animation can be so deep and intricate.

The story is told without any spoken words and in a beautiful minimalist animation, but yet it brings forward such complex emotions. I felt loneliness, excitement, despair, hope, and tears from my heart. In the end, it is making us reflect on our own experiences, reminding us to appreciate the relationships we have had and we will have.

A thoroughly grown-up movie that has something important to say to children too, and a wistful work of animated art.

Now, I wish I had a robot friend.