Bicentennial Man

1999 • Drama, Science Fiction • PG

Richard Martin buys a gift, a new NDR-114 robot. The product is named Andrew by the youngest of the family's children. "Bicentennial Man" follows the life and times of Andrew, a robot purchased as a household appliance programmed to perform menial tasks. As Andrew begins to experience emotions and creative thought, the Martin family soon discovers they don't have an ordinary robot.

Runtime: 2h 11m

For those enchanted by stories of artificial intelligence pondering the essence of humanity, reading 'The Bicentennial Man' by Isaac Asimov and Robert Silverberg offers a profound experience. The narrative is rich with philosophical questions and human emotions often glossed over in visual adaptations. Asimov’s genius lies in his ability to imbue mechanical beings with authentic human longings, allowing readers to explore the nuanced boundary between man and machine within the confines of their own imagination. The depth provided in the novel allows readers to engage repeatedly with Andrew Martín's journey. Every page is a testament to Asimov's expertise in merging technology with the core complexities of human nature. Unlike the movie, the novel does not rush through Andrew's transformative journey but rather invites readers to witness the slow, meticulous evolution of his consciousness and identity. In contrast to the cinematic rendition's time constraints, the book offers a detailed exploration of Andrew's relationships and development, which are integral to his quest for humanity. Reading 'The Bicentennial Man' provides a richer, more introspective insight into questions about life, mortality, and what it truly means to be human, fostering reflection long after the last page is turned.