Robot Dreams

Set in a New York City populated by animals with human traits, we meet a dog who lives a rather solitary existence. Addicted to microwavable mac 'n cheese, he catches a glimpse of a couple in the apartment block opposite and that makes him feel a little lonesome. A timely ad on the television, though, suggests he buy a robot pal. An huge great box duly arrives and a Meccano project that might have daunted Da Vinci ensues. Success! Soon the pair are bonding nicely and a trip to the beach proves great fun. The problem? Well, the robot then seizes up. Lack of power. The dog rushes home to get a repair kit only to find his return barred by gates and padlocks. It's the end of the season and he cannot return til June! He tries a few wheezes to ge...

In an age where the lines of what makes for a successful relationship have become increasingly blurred (and simultaneously more liberating), were seeing all manner of partnership combinations emerge that are just as valid as conventional models, no matter how different they may appear. And thank goodness for that, as evidenced by the profound connection depicted in this delightful animated feature from writer-director Pablo Berger. In a diversely multicultural version of 1980s New York (some might more correctly call it a multi-species zootropolis), Dog is a lonely soul. He longs to find someone to make his life fulfilled, a dream that appears to come true when he purchases an Amica 2000 Robot. Once activated, Robot and Dog quickly bond and...