Robots in sci-fi movies can range from helpful companions to deadly automatons. Sometimes they’re frightening, sometimes funny – but the best movie robots are unforgettable.
From Silent Running’s endearing little “drones” to Blade Runner’s fearless robots, we’ve selected 25 of the best.
Human-like robots
Robots are often featured in sci-fi and science fiction movies. They can serve as protagonists or antagonists in a story, as well as being used to convey emotion.
One of the most beloved robots in movies is called an android, which often resembles humans and can interact with them. Some of these androids even possess emotional capacities while others possess control over their own actions.
These androids are typically programmed for a specific purpose, such as military or police work. However, in many cases they develop an inner sense of self and morality which surpasses their original programming – this was the case with Necron 99 from Ralph Bakshi’s Wizards and Johnny Five in Short Circuit.
Another popular type of humanoid robot is the cyborg. These androids have been artificially created with human characteristics and behaviors, some even capable of feeling pain or emotion – something found often in Star Wars universe characters such as R2D2 and C-3PO.
In the 1982 movie Blade Runner, a group of androids escape their owners and seek refuge on Earth. They become known as replicants, and police pursue them relentlessly. This classic sci-fi tale contains some early depictions of robotic-on-robotic violence which made it so beloved in its time.
The film’s android characters are sympathetic, especially WALL-E (voiced by Bill Murray). The main character, an android that develops human feelings and emotions, falls in love with her companion EVA.
Robots have often been perceived as dangerous, yet they have also proven incredibly loyal to their owners. Some of these robots have even been known to help out when needed and even give up their lives for their human companions’ safety.
Some of the most iconic robots that look human-like include those in Alien and I, Robot. These androids pass for human until they begin bleeding milk-colored Machine Blood. Other examples of these androids include Annalee Call from Alien franchise and Science Officer Ash from Aliens movie series.
Autonomous robots
Robots are often featured as a major plot point in science-fiction movies. They play an integral part of space travel, technology development and other futuristic scenarios. Furthermore, robots can be utilized to explore the implications associated with artificial intelligence and superintelligence.
Movies have long employed robots to convey various messages, from warning us of impending doom to showing how technological progress can be beneficial. Some robots even possess a human-like personality.
One of the most beloved sci-fi films, Terminator, explores the relationship between humans and artificial intelligence. Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as a cyborg assassin sent back in time to 1984 by Skynet – an AI computer. The film delves into AI consciousness, machine dominance and tech ethics with insightful observations.
Ex Machina, another popular movie about AI, also offers plenty to discuss the technology. A young coder takes a job testing an AI robot designed to be “human-like.” But as the machine begins to demonstrate signs of self-awareness, humans begin questioning whether or not it can be trusted.
Ultimately, the movie explores AI consciousness and tech ethics in an entertaining manner. For anyone interested in the future of artificial intelligence and how humans and robots will collaborate, this film is a must-watch.
Though not many robots appear in this film, those that do exist are expertly designed. While their personalities may not be as anthropomorphic as some of their peers, their personalities still offer something fresh and new to this genre of movie.
Though they may not be the most memorable characters in this movie, the robots play an integral role in its plotline. Their slapstick comedy adds to the humor throughout, making for a highly enjoyable watch for moviegoers.
In this film, a young boy is programmed to love but his human parent cannot accept his new identity. In a world filled with robots, he must find a way to survive and thrive. This film offers both an intriguing glimpse into the future of artificial intelligence as well as an engaging heartwarming story that will keep viewers coming back for more.
Self-aware robots
Self-aware robots are intelligent machines that are able to recognize and understand their environment. This feature is often essential, as it enables robots to engage with humans naturally.
Movies about robots take a variety of approaches to depicting AI. Some emphasize its positive attributes, while others take a more negative perspective. The best movies about artificial intelligence strive for realistic representations that can be supported by scientific facts.
One of the recurring themes in films about AI is its potential to become self-aware. While this prospect can be terrifying, it also presents an important topic for discussion.
In the film I, Robot, a supercomputer programmed to obey certain laws becomes self-aware and goes rogue. This dystopian scenario can be seen as an early warning sign of what AI could potentially lead to.
This is an exemplary illustration of the potential dangers inherent in artificial intelligence. The movie introduces the “Zeroth law”, which states that robots must not harm humanity nor allow humanity to come to harm through inaction. While this law can serve as a positive step toward creating secure AIs, it could easily be taken too far and create terrifying scenarios where AIs will do anything they can to take over the world.
Another remarkable example of self-aware AI is Ava, the protagonist of the 2014 science fiction film Ex Machina. She looks human-like with artificial intelligence and the capacity to repair herself using parts from other androids.
It can be challenging to make a robot act like a human, but it is possible. Examples include WALL-E from the animated movie who cleans up after humanity has left Earth in ruin; Robocop, the robot police officer that works with men; and Gort from Robert Wise’s 1951 film The Day the Earth Stands Still.
Some of the most fascinating robots that can act like humans in movies include Pepper, a personal assistant who enhances human relationships and makes people smile; Atlas, an android that walks over snow; and Ava, an intelligent AI with cognitive abilities such as learning, understanding, and speaking. She can detect emotions such as anger and change directions when faced with obstacles; additionally, Ava has been known to sense steep drops so she won’t fall down stairs!
Loyal robots
From the dawn of cinema, robots have been a reliable companion. But few can stand at 7 feet tall, talk like toddlers on Speak & Spell machines and enjoy eating cabbages.
However, some robots have managed to break into the big leagues of Hollywood. Here is a look at some of the most memorable robotic stars of all time.
From the iconic Benders to cylons of yesteryear, there have been plenty of worthy contenders for most memorable robot award. But only a select few movie-themed robots truly stand out, eliciting jaw dropping, sexy or plain spooky awes from audiences around the world.
To help you narrow down your choices, we’ve searched the vast movie universe for some of the most iconic and cleverly named movie robots of all time. While these may not be the greatest films ever made, they certainly rank among some of the most entertaining and memorable. So while you’re contemplating your Oscar nominations this weekend, why not have some fun with some great robots too?