ROBOT & FRANK

year: 2012 cast: Frank Langella, Susan Sarandon rating: ***1/2

People can communicate on computer big screens instead of telephones, libraries have turned into posh clubhouses, and robots can help with just about everything: Welcome to the "near future" of ROBOT & FRANK, a subtle heartwarming science-fiction comedy starring Frank Langella as Frank, an old man losing his memory and he, living alone in the country, wants nothing to do with anyone or anything: including his own health and safety.

Frank’s son provides dad with a robot specializing in care-taking. They make for an odd couple – Frank prefers sitting around while Robot recommends a daily regiment of health foods and gardening.

During a trip into town, Frank learns his cohort has a special gift of... playing with the truth. And for an ex jewel thief, this works just fine. Soon Robot becomes Frank’s partner in crime.

The best moments occur between man and machine: casing a yuppie’s house or stealing an obsolete library book. The capers occur quickly and without much suspense. It’s the relationship between Frank and his new best friend that really counts. Especially when outside elements, like Frank’s daughter and the local police, put that relationship at risk.

Peter Sarsgaard provides the Robot's mellow voice, sounding like a cross between Kevin Spacey and Hal 9000. And Susan Sarandon plays a love interest who doesn't get in the way of the important stuff, although she's a lot more important than you'll realize.