Robot & Frank

Robot & Frank was a surprisingly deep movie. I thought it was just going to be a feel good odd couple tale. Instead, it offered a commentary on aging, our relationship to technology, friendship, and dealing with the decline of a loved one. It is also funny.
Frank is a retired cat burglar with some memory problems who insists on living alone. He has two adult children that try to do the best for him. It is clear that Frank was not the best Dad nor is he easy to help out. He clearly values his independence. He is an old school tough guy.
One day his son, who visits once a week, drops off a robot to help Frank. The robot is programmed to take care of Frank and help him improve his health and flagging memory. The interactions between Frank and the robot are great. The robot, while looking like a clunker, is capable of improvising and using human tricks to manipulate Frank.
As one would expect, Frank develops a fondness for the robot. The robots attempts to engage Frank in a project drive the plot. The plot in turn drives the thematic exploration without ever hitting you over the head. Most of the thinking comes after the credits roll.
The writing and acting is superb. Frank is delicately played. You are never quite sure about how impaired he is. He walks the difficult line between being a stereotypical grumpy old man and a lovable scourge. His interactions with the rest of the cast quietly speak volumes about the love he has for life and the knowledge he has about how the thing that makes him human is slipping away from him.
Robot & Frank will make you laugh and cry. It will make you love life and dread getting older. As with all the best things, it is bitter sweet.