Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Bicentennial Man

film

Bicentennial Man

1999

Richard Martin buys a gift, a new NDR-114 robot. The product is named Andrew by the youngest of the family's children. "Bicentennial Man" follows the life and times of Andrew, a robot purchased as a household appliance programmed to perform menial tasks. As Andrew begins to experience emotions and creative thought, the Martin family soon discovers they don't have an ordinary robot.

Ages 10+Source checked

Why this age? Generally gentle PG science fiction, but its long, emotionally complex story includes discrimination, human aging, bereavement, romantic intimacy, and death that may be difficult for younger children. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age10+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Romance3/5
  • Products & advertising2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising2/5
Why this rating?

Some fictional brand and robot manufacturing context, but not marketing products.

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

Death and mortality are central as human characters age and die; the ending is emotionally heavy and concerns Andrew’s own mortality.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild language consistent with a PG rating.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Concepts of soul and mortality are discussed through a philosophical lens.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

A romantic relationship develops over time between the robot and a human, depicted with emotional sensitivity.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

Not intended to be scary; no jump scares or frightening creatures.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Some mild discussion of physical intimacy in the context of being 'human', but nothing explicit.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Social drinking depicted in a few scenes.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Features minor, non-graphic conflict involving prejudice against androids.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Andrew repeatedly risks rejection and loss while pursuing freedom, self-expression, love, and recognition as a person.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Creative thought, woodworking, invention, artistic expression, and personal transformation are major parts of Andrew’s journey.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

The film explores difference, discrimination, and inclusion through an artificial being seeking equal personhood; human cultural diversity is less central.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

It invites discussion of artificial intelligence, ethics, personhood, technology, aging, and social change, though education is not its primary purpose.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Andrew receives care and friendship, and others advocate for his dignity. The story also shows prejudice and cruelty, so kindness is central but not universal.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes affirm dignity, freedom, creativity, compassion, acceptance, and the right to define one’s identity beyond assigned categories.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates persistence, integrity, and a commitment to personal growth.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in Bicentennial Man would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Bicentennial Man, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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