Pub.lished Movie Reviews
The Iron Giant (1999)
"The Iron Giant" (1999) is a heartwarming tale about a young boy who befriends a giant robot from outer space, despite the efforts of a paranoid government agent to destroy it.
The story takes off when an object from outer space crashes into the ocean just off the coast of Maine and then makes its way into the forest near the town of Rockwell. Nine-year-old Hogarth Hughes investigates and discovers that the object is a 50-foot-tall extraterrestrial robot. Initially frightened, Hogarth runs away but later returns to save the robot when it gets electrocuted while trying to consume the transmission lines of an electrical substation.
Hogarth and the Giant cross paths again and form an unlikely friendship, with the Giant showing a docile and curious nature. This friendship is tested when a train collides with the Giant, causing a derailment. But Hogarth leads the Giant away from the chaos, discovering along the way that the Giant has the ability to self-repair. Hogarth introduces the Giant to comic books, likening him to the hero Superman, despite the Giant's inability to recall his origins or reasons for coming to Earth. Hogarth suspects this memory loss is due to damage the Giant incurred during his landing.
Enter Kent Mansley, a paranoid U.S. government agent who is led to Rockwell following these incidents. He becomes suspicious of Hogarth's involvement after conversing with him and his widowed mother, and decides to rent a room in their house to keep a closer watch on him. Hogarth, however, manages to outwit Mansley and hides the Giant in a junkyard owned by beatnik artist Dean McCoppin.
While enjoying his time with the Giant, Hogarth is faced with the difficult task of explaining the concept of death to the Giant after witnessing hunters killing a deer. This incident triggers a nightmare in the Giant, revealing his background as a war machine built to conquer worlds by an evil alien civilization that destroyed itself in a civil war.
As the story progresses, Hogarth is interrogated by Mansley, who has discovered evidence of the Giant's existence. Mansley summons a U.S. Army contingent led by General Shannon Rogard to the scrapyard to verify the Giant's existence. But they are fooled by Dean's quick thinking, who convinces them that the Giant is one of his art pieces.
However, the situation escalates when Hogarth accidentally activates the Giant's defensive system, causing it to fire a laser beam. Dean, furious at the Giant for nearly killing Hogarth, lashes out, causing the guilt-ridden Giant to run away. Dean soon realizes that the Giant was merely acting in self-defense and joins Hogarth in chasing after the Giant.
"The Iron Giant" is a wild ride, that despite being an animated movie, deals with serious themes. It's a film with so much heart, it could make even the grumpiest old man feel like he's chopping onions. This movie serves as a reminder that friendship can be found in the most unexpected places, and that fear and paranoia can often blind us to the potential for good in others.
- You dislike animation. The Iron Giant is a hand-drawn animated film.
- You're not into science fiction or fantasy. The movie features a gigantic alien robot.
- You're looking for a light-hearted comedy. While it does have humorous moments, the overall tone is serious with emotional moments.
- You prefer movies with adult themes. The Iron Giant explores themes suitable for children and families.
- Recommended viewing age is 7 and up due to some scenes of peril and action.
Toy Story (1995)
Both "The Iron Giant" and "Toy Story" are animated classics that beautifully encapsulate the power of friendship, loyalty, and understanding. They are both character-driven stories with emotionally rich narratives that appeal to both children and adults. The films share themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the value of non-violence, all wrapped in heartwarming humor. With a similar blend of adventure, comedy, and poignant moments, "Toy Story," like "The Iron Giant," leaves audiences with a lasting impact and timeless life lessons.
The Thin Man (1934)Though seemingly different, both "The Iron Giant" (1999) and "The Thin Man" (1934) share key elements that would appeal to the same audience. They both excel in their charming characters, witty dialogues, and unexpected humor, which provide a warm, engaging experience. Both films blend drama with comedy effortlessly and effectively, creating a unique narrative style that keeps viewers invested. "The Thin Man," just like "The Iron Giant," showcases a strong bond - not between a boy and his gigantic metal friend, but between a couple solving mysteries, which can be equally heartwarming and engaging for fans of the former.
Bambi (1942)Those who love "The Iron Giant" will also love "Bambi" as both films share themes of innocence, friendship, and the struggle of growing up and facing adversity. Both are emotionally resonant, featuring a non-human protagonist who navigates through life's challenges, ultimately learning valuable life lessons. "The Iron Giant" and "Bambi" approach the theme of loss in a poignant manner that resonates with viewers of all ages. The captivating animation, memorable characters, and the universal themes make both films timeless classics that tug at the heartstrings.
Babe (1995)"The Iron Giant" and "Babe" are heartwarming, family-friendly films that tell the story of unusual friendships that defy societal norms. Each movie focuses on the theme of being different and finding acceptance, with "The Iron Giant" showcasing the bond between a boy and an alien robot, and "Babe" highlighting the relationship between a pig and a farmer. The films' charming characters, gentle humor, and emotional depth, combined with their messages about kindness, understanding, and breaking stereotypes, make them appealing to the same audience.
Toy Story 2 (1999)Both "The Iron Giant" and "Toy Story 2," released in 1999, are animated films that weave together humor, heart, and adventure, creating stories that appeal to both children and adults. They feature memorable characters who go on transformative journeys and face moral dilemmas, exploring themes of friendship, bravery, and self-discovery. The films' engaging narratives, unique animation styles, and emotional depth resonate with viewers, making "Toy Story 2" a likely hit for those who loved The Iron Giant.
Spider-Man 2 (2004)Aficionados of "The Iron Giant" (1999) will appreciate "Spider-Man 2" (2004) because both films share themes of self-discovery, personal sacrifice, and the struggle to use power responsibly. Just as the Iron Giant learns to overcome his destructive programming for the benefit of others, Peter Parker must balance his personal life with his duties as Spider-Man, often making sacrifices for the greater good. Both films also deliver thrilling action sequences, emotional depth, and memorable characters, all wrapped up in a heartwarming narrative about the true meaning of heroism.
The Incredibles (2004)Fanciers of "The Iron Giant" will appreciate "The Incredibles" for its similar exploration of themes like friendship, courage, and the struggle of concealing one's true identity, all set against the backdrop of an exciting, action-packed superhero narrative. Both films feature stunning animation, heartwarming relationships, and complex characters that must grapple with their extraordinary abilities in a world where they must hide their true nature. Moreover, both films, despite being animated and ostensibly for children, offer profound commentary on society, identity, and the idea of heroism that will resonate with adults as well.
Big Hero 6 (2014):Just like "The Iron Giant," "Big Hero 6" also shares the core theme of a boy and his robot, exploring their friendship and adventure together. This smart, thoughtful, and laugh-out-loud funny film features a warm-hearted robot called Baymax who becomes a companion to a young boy named Hiro Hamada. The film carries a strong and emotional storyline, laced with enough action and humor to keep it engaging.
Wall-E (2008):If you loved "The Iron Giant," chances are you'll also enjoy "Wall-E". This beautifully animated Pixar film tells the story of a little waste-cleaning robot who, despite being all alone on a post-apocalyptic Earth, is full of curiosity and is remarkably considerate. Much like "The Iron Giant," it's filled with charm, memorable characters, and emotional depth, all while addressing important global issues.
How to Train Your Dragon (2010):Like The Iron Giant, "How to Train Your Dragon" hinges on the relationship at its center- between a young boy and a supposedly terrifying creature. Set in a mythical Viking world, it tells the story of a young Viking teenager named Hiccup who aspires to follow his tribe's traditions of becoming a dragon slayer. After finally capturing his first dragon, and upon having a chance to kill it, he finds that he no longer has the desire to kill it, and instead befriends it.
Ratatouille (2007):"Ratatouille," much like "The Iron Giant," is an incredible character-driven story about acceptance, understanding, and aiming for goals despite all odds. The film follows Remy, a rat, who dreams of becoming a great French chef despite his family's wishes and the problematic fact that people despise rodents. This delightful tale is filled with humor, heart, and mouthwatering animation that all ages are sure to enjoy.
Monsters, Inc. (2001):If you enjoyed the unique character relationships in "The Iron Giant," you might love "Monster's, Inc.". It's about top scare team Sully and his assistant, Mike Wazowski working at Monsters Inc., the largest scare factory in the monster world. However, their lives are disrupted when a human girl wanders into their world. It's knack for blending humor with heartfelt emotion and delivering a meaningful message makes it a must watch.
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