I watched Robot Dreams and I liked it. 3.5/5
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Pablo Berger’s “Robot Dreams” stands out as a visually captivating animated feature, showcasing a unique and ambitious approach to storytelling. Opting for a dialogue-free narrative, the film relies solely on animation, music, and sound effects to convey its tale. Initially, this bold decision grips the audience, offering an immersive and distinct experience. However, as the story unfolds, the limitations of this approach become apparent, leaving the film feeling more like a promising concept than a fully realized masterpiece.
At its core, “Robot Dreams” presents a charmingly simple premise: Kiko, an isolated inventor seeking companionship, creates a robot companion named Rusty. Their wordless interactions blossom into a heartwarming friendship as they navigate the vibrant city together. While the storyline follows the classic trope of a “man and his robot,” the film endeavors to transcend cliches through its silent execution.
Visually, “Robot Dreams” excels. Berger’s animation style is characterized by a minimalist aesthetic complemented by expressive character designs. The bustling cityscapes burst with life and detail, providing a vibrant backdrop for Kiko and Rusty’s adventures. Rusty, with his endearing mismatched parts and clunky movements, emerges as a particularly lovable character. Credit is due to the animation team for their skill in bringing this world to vivid life.
However, the absence of dialogue poses a challenge. While initially compelling, it creates a barrier to forming a deeper connection with the characters. Their inner thoughts and motivations remain largely obscured, resulting in a superficial rather than profound bond between Kiko and Rusty. Additionally, the pacing of the film occasionally lags, diminishing the emotional impact of certain scenes. The score, while initially poignant and beautiful, becomes repetitive over time, underscoring the film’s lack of narrative depth.
The ending, while emotionally resonant, feels somewhat rushed, leaving several plot threads unresolved. It seems as though Berger became enamored with the film’s visual potential, overlooking the necessity of fully developing its story and characters.
In conclusion, “Robot Dreams” is a film brimming with potential that falls short of its ambitions. While its animation is undeniably impressive and the silent film approach offers a novel cinematic experience, the lack of dialogue hinders emotional engagement. Additionally, the pacing and narrative depth leave something to be desired. For those seeking a visually striking film with a simple, heartwarming message, “Robot Dreams” may satisfy. However, viewers yearning for a deeper emotional journey and well-developed characters may find themselves wanting more from this otherwise promising endeavor.
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