Several years ago when we first covered Science Fiction Day, we brought up the author largely responsible for the celebration, Isaac Asimov. Science Fiction Day is popularly celebrated on January 2nd, Asimov's observed birthday. Asimov is most remembered as the Father of Robotics, and his most prominent work of fiction is I,Robot, a collection of short stories involving robots and various moral and ethical dilemmas involving them. Within the book he also coined the Three Laws of Robotics and the Zeroeth Law, pertaining to the governing of robots. Though intended for his fictional stories, much of Asimov's ideas have been accepted into popular media and actual science.
His works have been adapted several times in film, but none more notably than I, Robot itself.
Released in 2004, the film stars Will Smith as Detective Spooner, a jaded police officer living in the stressfully near-future of 2035 Chicago. In 2035, robots have been created to serve in menial service and industrial jobs, with US Robotics the industry leader. Spooner has a mysterious past with the co-founder, Dr. Lanning, who apparently committed suicide on the eve of the launch of the latest model, the SR5. Spooner has to get to the root of the investigation where he ultimately uncovers a plot against mankind itself.
The core of the film, with Spooner, Lanning and the suicide originate from the earliest script. During pre-production, 20th Century Fox acquired the film rights to I, Robot, and began to integrate the property into the movie that had been originally titled Hardwired. The name of course is the most obvious, but there were other nods as well, referencing other stories in the collection, and making the Three Laws front and center.
The final product ended up being surprisingly elegant and thought provoking. Against a budget of about $120 million, the film grossed over $350 million, making it a certified hit. Though delayed slightly to avoid competition with Spider-Man 2. Smith wasn't the first actor in mind, as 20th Century Fox had attempted to get Arnold Schwartzenager and Denzel Washington at varying points. Arnie was a curious addition, as he has quite the history in science fiction films, being in both The Terminator franchise and Total Recall.
Critically, the film was also a bit of a hit. In a rarity for a summer blockbuster, I, Robot made a niche for itself with its deep mystery plot and dramatic broodiness. It remains a favorite 2000s film among fans of the genre.
Happy watching!
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