‘Robots’ impresses with detailed visuals

While Japan may still have a fascination with two-dimensional animation, America has traded the old hand-drawn standbys for ultra realistic computer-generated goodness. Ever since the release of the wildly popular “Toy Story,” moviegoers have been treated to unique characters and animation styles that have revolutionized animation.

Following in the footsteps of the CGI animation giant Pixar, Dreamworks has been equally successful with their computer animation releases “Shrek” and “Ice Age.” The latest installment from Dreamworks is “Robots,” a highly entertaining vision of a world completely inhabited with mechanical beings.

The story centers on a robot named Rodney (Ewan McGregor) who dreams of one day leaving his humble beginnings and moving to Robot City. While there, he hopes to show his inventions to the iconic Mr. Bigweld (Mel Brooks), who is a successful inventor and entrepreneur.

Just as Rodney thinks his dream is coming true, his hopes are crushed when he realizes Bigweld Industries has been taken over by an evil robot named Ratchet who devises a scheme to stop making spare parts for all robots. The plot centers around Rodney’s plan to save Bigweld and restore him to corporate prowess.

Along his journey he meets some interesting and hilarious counterparts. Always adding comic relief to the film is a clumsy robot named Fender. Again lending his hilarity to an animated feature, Robin Williams shines. His quick wit and tack make Fender a joy to watch.

Equally impressive are the extremely detailed visuals of “Robots.” Dreamworks has set a new benchmark in quality when it comes to CGI rendered delights. Not even Pixar’s recent cash cow, “The Incredibles,” looked this detailed.

Robots is marketed to a children’s audience, but don’t be fooled. This is one movie that truly holds something for everyone. There are plenty of kid-friendly robot puns thrown throughout, but there are also many jokes and jabs that should inspire chuckles from the older crowd as well.

If an opportunity arises to see “Robots,” go for it. The theater might be filled with giggling elementary school kids, but it will be well worth it. The film is funny, visually stunning and extremely entertaining.

Grade: A-