Title: Will Smith’s I, Robot Finds a New Streaming Home on Hulu
Introduction
Will Smith’s 2004 science-fiction film I, Robot is set to become available on Hulu starting July 1, 2025. Based on Isaac Asimov’s foundational literary work from the 1950s, the film has gained a dedicated fan base over the years and achieved notable box office success.
Overview of the Film
In I, Robot, Smith plays Del Spooner, a Chicago detective with a deep-seated bias against robots. Haunted by survivor’s guilt from a tragic incident where a robot saved him but failed to rescue a young girl, Spooner is drawn into a complex investigation following the murder of Dr. Alfred Lanning. Set in the year 2035, the film imagines a future where humanoid robots are integral to society—until a murder leads Spooner to suspect they may be capable of human-like crimes.
Alongside Smith, the film features a talented ensemble cast, including Bridget Moynahan (John Wick), Bruce Greenwood (Star Trek), James Cromwell (Big Hero 6), Chi McBride (Hawaii Five-0), and Alan Tudyk (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story). In spite of a 57% average critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film garnered a 70% audience score and received recognition with an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects.
Cultural and Financial Impact
Upon its release, I, Robot grossed over $353 million worldwide, including $52 million during its opening weekend. Its strong financial performance sparked discussions about a potential sequel. However, plans for a follow-up never materialized, stalling in the years following its release.
In 2007, screenwriter Ronald Moore mentioned working on a sequel script, but the project has since stalled without any updates. According to Akiva Goldsman, another screenwriter connected to the film, the changing dynamics of Hollywood—where a successful film does not guarantee a sequel—were to blame for the project’s decline. Goldsman did hint at the possibility of a reunion between Spooner and the robot Sonny if a sequel were ever developed.
Looking Ahead
As I, Robot makes its debut on Hulu, it invites both nostalgia for longtime fans and an opportunity for a new audience to engage with its themes. The film raises important questions surrounding technology and humanity, issues that remain highly relevant today. With current advancements in AI, revisiting I, Robot could prompt fresh discussions on ethical considerations in robotics and artificial intelligence.
Conclusion
In summary, the arrival of I, Robot on Hulu signifies not just a returning interest in this classic sci-fi narrative but also highlights an ongoing dialogue about our relationship with technology. While a sequel remains uncertain, the film’s enduring appeal may inspire future projects that explore similar themes. As fans prepare to revisit Smith’s iconic role, the movie stands as both a thrilling experience and a thought-provoking commentary on the future of human-robot interaction.
For those interested in catching or reconnecting with this sci-fi gem, I, Robot will be available for streaming on Hulu starting July 1, 2025.
