Science fiction movies are consistently popular with audiences. The genre often explores what it means to be human in a world increasingly shaped by technology, or transports viewers to completely new settings. Many sci-fi stories are originally written as books, and the works of Isaac Asimov are especially often adapted for the screen. While not all of these adaptations have been successful, one particularly controversial film version is about to find a new home on a streaming service.
The movie I, Robot will be available to stream on Hulu starting February 1st. Directed by Alex Proyas and featuring Will Smith, Bridget Moynahan, Bruce Greenwood, James Cromwell, and Alan Tudyk, the 2004 film is based on Isaac Asimov’s 1950 short story collection of the same name. However, while inspired by Asimov’s work, the movie differs significantly from the original stories, which led to mixed reactions from both fans and critics.
I, Robot Is Little Like Asimov’s Work (But It Was Still a Box Office Success)
In the Chicago of 2035, incredibly intelligent robots work alongside humans, guided by the Three Laws of Robotics to ensure everyone’s safety. When Alfred Lanning, the founder of U.S. Robotics (played by Cromwell), seemingly commits suicide, Detective Del Spooner (played by Smith) believes a remarkably human-like robot named Sonny (played by Tudyk) is responsible. But as Spooner digs deeper into the case, he discovers a much bigger plot at play.
Okay, so this movie tackles a really fascinating idea – the implications of technology and AI – and honestly, it feels incredibly relevant even now, decades after it first came out. When it was released, though, it really divided people. As a critic, I can see why. While interesting, it strayed way from the source material – Asimov’s work – and didn’t push viewers to engage with truly complex ideas. Plus, the acting wasn’t anything to write home about. Audiences seemed to enjoy it more, though, and that translated into big numbers at the box office – over $350 million against a $120 million budget. It was a huge hit that year, and for a while, there was even talk of a follow-up, but that sadly never happened.
Although the movie I, Robot wasn’t the most successful adaptation of Isaac Asimov’s work, Will Smith returned to science fiction with another adaptation in 2007: I Am Legend. Based on Richard Matheson’s 1954 novel, I Am Legend was more well-received by critics than I, Robot, and a sequel was announced in 2022, though it took some liberties with the original story.
I, Robot is coming to Hulu February 1st.
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2026-01-29 00:17