Bicentennial Man (1999)
Bicentennial Man (1999) is a science fiction drama film directed by Chris Columbus, based on the novella of the same name by Isaac Asimov. The film stars Robin Williams in one of his more poignant roles, alongside a cast that includes Embeth Davidtz, Sam Neill, and Oliver Platt.
The story centers on Andrew Martin (Robin Williams), a highly advanced domestic robot created in 2005. Initially designed to perform household tasks and assist his human family, Andrew begins to exhibit unusual traits that suggest a deeper level of self-awareness and individuality. As he grows over the years, Andrew’s development leads him to question his purpose and desire for personal freedom and human experiences.
Over the course of two centuries, Andrew embarks on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. His quest for human experiences drives him to pursue a range of ambitions—from artistic expression to forming romantic relationships. His relationship with the Martin family evolves significantly, particularly with Portia (Embeth Davidtz), whom he grows to love, and he gradually strives to become more human in his quest for autonomy.
Bicentennial Man explores themes of identity, humanity, and the quest for meaning. It examines what it means to be human through Andrew’s evolving consciousness and his struggle to achieve true equality and acceptance within human society.
The film combines elements of science fiction with emotional drama, as it reflects on issues of personal growth, love, and the essence of what it means to be alive.
The film is noted for Robin Williams’ heartfelt performance, blending humor and emotional depth. While it received mixed reviews from critics, it is appreciated for its imaginative premise and its exploration of philosophical questions related to artificial intelligence and human experience.