RBR: Robot and Frank

This small independent dramedy is set in the not too distant future where robots have been designed with the capacity to serve humans as caretakers. Frank (played by Frank Langella) is given one of these robots after his son (James Marsden) grows concerned about Frank's decreasing mental health. Langella, playing the grumpy old man well, is initially resistant to the idea. However, when he learns that the robot enables him to return to his roots as a cat burglar, he warms to the mechanical man. Langella also develops a relationship with a local librarian, played by Susan Sarandon. The film is similar to another independent film that Sarandon was in last year, Jeff, Who Lives At Home. Both are pleasant films that delve into the family dynamic but never quite reach the emotional or narrative heft in order to make them truly great films. I thoroughly enjoyed myself as I watched Robot and Frank, but the whole film has such a light and airy feel to it, that I could never truly get invested in what was happening. I will commend the film for offering up a twist at the end that I did not see coming. Any time a film can surprise me, I am appreciative. This is a simple film that offers a unique story and solid acting, with maybe the exception of Liv Tyler who plays Frank's daughter. If you were to miss this film, it would not be any great loss. But if the premise intrigues you at all, you'll likely enjoy giving this a view. Rating: ****