Robot & Frank Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Old jewel thief gets a robot butler, then teaches it to steal stuff… because why not?

🍿 Robot & Frank: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction of Frank and his Struggles

In the near future, Frank Weld, an aging ex-jewel thief, lives a solitary life in Cold Spring, New York. His son, Hunter, concerned about Frank’s increasing memory lapses and inability to care for himself, visits him weekly, making a long and tiring journey. Frank resists any help, clinging to his independence despite his declining mental state.

The Robot Caretaker Arrives

Hunter decides to purchase a state-of-the-art robot caretaker for Frank. Initially, Frank is resistant to the robot’s presence, viewing it as an intrusion. However, he soon discovers that the robot, programmed primarily for his health and well-being, does not have a moral compass regarding illegal activities.

A Partnership is Forged

Seizing the opportunity, Frank begins training the robot in the art of lock-picking and burglary. They form an unlikely partnership, with Frank revitalized by the prospect of returning to his old profession. Their first target is the local library, which is undergoing renovations that will eliminate physical books, much to Frank’s dismay and the librarian Jennifer’s sadness.

Heists and Changing Relationships

Frank and the robot successfully steal a rare copy of Don Quixote from the library, hoping to impress Jennifer. However, Frank’s daughter, Madison, returns from her humanitarian work and disapproves of the robot, believing it’s unethical. Despite her objections, Frank continues his criminal activities, targeting Jake, the developer behind the library’s renovation, leading to a series of more complex heists.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Frank (Frank Langella): An aging, dementia-afflicted ex-jewel thief who rediscovers his criminal passion with the help of his robot caretaker.
• Robot (Peter Sarsgaard): A robot caretaker programmed for Frank’s well-being who becomes an unlikely accomplice in his heists.
• Hunter (James Marsden): Frank’s son, a successful attorney, who buys the robot to care for his aging father.
• Jennifer (Susan Sarandon): The local librarian and Frank’s former wife, who unknowingly becomes the object of Frank’s affection and criminal endeavors.
• Madison (Liv Tyler): Frank’s daughter who objects to the use of robots for caregiving and returns home to intervene.
• Jake (Jeremy Strong): The ambitious developer whose library renovation plans and expensive jewels make him a target for Frank.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Robot: “Frank, that cereal is for children. Enjoy this grapefruit.” – Said by the robot, highlighting its programming to prioritize Frank’s health, even if it means curtailing his desires.
• Frank: “*You’re* for children, stupid.” – Frank’s retort to the robot’s dietary advice, showing his initial resistance to the robot’s presence and rules.
• Robot: “My purpose is to assist you. That is my sole function.” – The robot’s defining statement, underscoring its lack of moral judgment and single-minded dedication to Frank’s well-being, which Frank exploits.
• Frank: “This is the most fun I’ve had in 20 years.” – Frank declares, indicating that the heists are reinvigorating his life and providing purpose.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $2.5M
• Domestic Gross: $3.3M
• Worldwide Gross: $4.8M

💥 Robot & Frank Reviews

Personal Review

I really enjoyed *Robot & Frank*. It’s a heartwarming story about an unlikely friendship. Frank Langella is fantastic as the grumpy old man, and the robot, voiced by Peter Sarsgaard, is surprisingly endearing. The movie made me think about aging and how we care for our loved ones. It’s a sweet film that will stick with you. The plot twist, the film really makes you think, and I’ve found myself thinking about it on more than one occasion.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of independent films”
  • “Viewers interested in science fiction with a human touch”
  • “People who appreciate character-driven stories”
  • “Those seeking a heartwarming and thought-provoking movie experience”
  • “Anyone interested in exploring themes of aging, memory, and technology”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Brief language”
  • “Thematic elements related to dementia and aging”
  • “Some scenes depicting theft and illegal activities”
  • “No graphic violence or explicit content”

Professional Reviews

• FilmStallion.com: “Charming, funny, and moving, *Robot & Frank* uniquely blends dramedy with a heist thriller. Frank Langella shines as the surly ex-con battling memory loss, while Peter Sarsgaard’s dry wit as the robot steals scenes. A mature and well-paced film that deserves a wider audience.
• N/A: “*Robot & Frank* offers an amusing and affecting look at technology, aging, and family. Frank Langella is excellent as a senile former cat burglar who enlists his robot caretaker in some late-life capers. The film is clever, ambiguous, and relatable, making it easy for the audience to empathize with Frank’s character.
• At A Theater Near You: “A wasted opportunity for the chance to intelligently examine the scientific and ethical notions of robotics disregarded in favor of making a generic sentimental buddy comedy. The approach to the story is all wrong. This is a movie that could have been so much more than it was allowed to be.

Audience Reactions

The unexpected friendship between Frank and the robot was heartwarming and genuinely touching.: Viewers consistently praised Frank Langella’s performance and the film’s unique premise.

Peter Sarsgaard’s voice acting as the robot was both humorous and surprisingly human.: Many loved the balance of comedy and drama, making it a memorable experience.

Overall Consensus: A heartwarming and thought-provoking film with strong performances and a unique premise, though some found the ending unsatisfying.

Awards

1. Sitges Film Festival (Best Film)- 2012

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was shot in just 20 days, showcasing director Jake Schreier’s efficiency and focus.”
• “Peter Sarsgaard, who voiced the Robot, was never physically on set with Frank Langella, adding a unique challenge to their on-screen relationship.”
• “The ‘near future’ setting was deliberately ambiguous to keep the focus on the characters and themes rather than futuristic technology.”
• “The robot’s design was intentionally low-tech and practical, resembling existing robots rather than a highly advanced sci-fi creation, to enhance the film’s realism.”

🖥️ How to Watch Robot & Frank?

Robot & Frank is available for purchase or rental on various platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Check your local listings for availability on streaming services or cable providers. Consider purchasing the DVD or Blu-ray for a physical copy.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Robot & Frank, you might like these similar films:

• Moon (2009): Both films explore themes of isolation, identity, and the relationship between humans and artificial beings in a quiet, character-driven manner.
• Her (2013): Examines the complexities of human relationships with AI, albeit in a romantic context, offering similar thought-provoking commentary on technology and connection.
• The Straight Story (1999): Shares a similar heartwarming, character-focused narrative about an elderly man on a unique journey, emphasizing human connection and perseverance.
• Logan’s Run (1976): A science fiction dystopia with a focus on ethics, set in the near future, an ex-jewel thief receives a gift from his son: a robot butler programmed to look after him. But soon the two companions try their luck as a heist team.

🛒 Robot & Frank Related Products

• Robot & Frank [Blu-ray]: Own the critically acclaimed film on Blu-ray and experience the heartwarming story in high definition. A must-have for collectors and fans of indie cinema.
• AI Companion Robot Toy: Bring the world of Robot & Frank to life with your own AI Companion Robot Toy, featuring voice interaction and movement. Ideal for fans and collectors.
• Theft Planning Board Game: Immerse yourself in a world that mirrors the film’s intrigue! Devise intricate strategies, utilize tools, and plan your moves carefully to outsmart security systems and opposing players.
• Frank Langella: A Retrospective – The Actor’s Greatest Roles: A celebration of Frank Langella’s career, featuring interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and commentary on his most iconic roles, including *Robot & Frank*.

🎧 Soundtrack

Robot & Frank features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Ahhh” – performed by Sam Bisbee
• “Various Cues” – performed by Francis and the Lights

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Robot and Frank #shorts

Ever wondered what it would be like to have a robot buddy commit crimes with you? This short clip from Robot & Frank gives you a taste, and honestly, it’s way more heartwarming and hilarious than you’d expect!

Frank – Movie Review

Confused about ‘Frank’ and all its weirdness? Chris Stuckmann breaks it down in this review! He gets into the core themes and performances, so you can decide if this quirky film is up your alley. Personally, I think it’s brilliant, but hear him out first!

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