Dog lives in a details-perfect illustrated version of early 80s New York City, the twin towers still framing the skyline—here is the home of anthropomorphised, bipedal animal residents of all kinds, going about their bustling Big Apple lives. Alone in his apartment, full of big-city meanderings and microwaved macaroni, Dog sees an ad for an android companion. After assembling him from a kit he receives in the mail, Dog is invigorated by the presence of his new pal Robot, who quickly fills his life with unbridled joy, unconditional friendship and adventurous antics. But, time passes, seasons change, and tragedy looms large.
Direct from the Cannes Film Festival 2023, Spanish writer-director Pablo Berger adapts Sara Varon’s popular graphic novel about the adventures and misfortunes of Dog and Robot.
Indiewire – “With its soulful tin heart, Robot Dreams moves us to appreciate the fortune of having a precious pal. Whether for a season or a lifetime.” (full review here)
Empire – “Who needs humans? This is visual storytelling at its finest, a traditional animation of gentle, unshowy genius. Sometimes the very best love stories go deeper than words can say.” (full review here)
The Observer – “There’s such tenderness to the storytelling, such empathy and emotional depth, that it broadens the film’s potential audience from kids, who will respond to the cute characters and gentle wit, to adolescents and adults, who will recognise the angst and awkwardness of trying to function alone once again.” (full review here)
