Bicentennial Man

Bicentennial Man

Year: 1999

Runtime: 132 min

Language: English

Director: Chris Columbus

Budget: $100M

Sci-FiDramaFantasyRomanceFamily

A cutting-edge NDR-114 robot named Andrew is gifted to the Martin family, profoundly changing their lives. Initially programmed for simple tasks, Andrew begins a remarkable journey of evolution, developing emotions, creativity, and a desire for self-expression. As he strives to become more like a human being, the Martins are challenged to examine their own understanding of humanity and what it means to be alive. His quest explores themes of identity, belonging, and the very definition of life.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Bicentennial Man (1999)

Trace every key event in Bicentennial Man (1999) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Arrival of Andrew

On April 3, 2005, the Martin family welcomed Andrew, an innovative NDR series robot, into their home. He was designed to manage household chores and maintenance tasks, and his arrival marked the beginning of a unique journey for both him and the family.

April 3, 2005 Martin household
2

Connection with Amanda

During his unveiling, Andrew demonstrated the Three Laws of Robotics, captivating the youngest member of the family, Amanda. While her older sister, Grace, was skeptical, Amanda's natural curiosity sparked a meaningful bond between her and Andrew.

Martin household
3

The Glass Figurine Incident

A pivotal moment occurred when Andrew accidentally broke one of Amanda's cherished glass figurines. In response, he crafted a wooden replacement, showcasing his artistic talent. This incident caught the attention of Richard, who saw potential in Andrew's creativity.

Martin household
4

Scrutiny at NorthAm Robotics

Inspired by Andrew's craftsmanship, Richard brought him to NorthAm Robotics for evaluation. There, CEO Dennis Mansky perceived Andrew's abilities as a threat and suggested he be scrapped, but Richard advocated for Andrew, encouraging him to explore his human-like qualities.

NorthAm Robotics
5

Development of Emotional Intelligence

As time passed, Richard helped Andrew develop emotional intelligence, allowing him to express feelings through facial expressions. This transformation deepened the relationship between Andrew and Richard, as Andrew began to see the world in a more profound manner.

6

Andrew's Fortune from Clockmaking

Decades later, Andrew revealed to Richard that he had amassed a significant fortune through his clockmaking business, which Richard had been managing. This newfound wealth spurred Andrew's desire for freedom, ultimately leading to a critical decision about his independence.

7

Andrew's Independence

Richard reluctantly granted Andrew his independence, albeit with the condition that he leave the Martin household. Andrew then set out to build his own coastal home, determined to pursue his passions and live autonomously.

Coastal home
8

Richard's Regret

In 2048, as Richard faced his final moments, he experienced deep regret for sending Andrew away. This emotional reconciliation marked a significant turning point in their relationship, re-establishing the connection they once shared.

2048
9

Quest for Other NDR Robots

Following Richard's death, Andrew began searching for other NDR robots that shared similar traits. During this journey, he maintained contact with Amanda, who had experienced her own life changes, including remarriage and divorce.

10

Encounter with Galatea

By 2068, Andrew encountered Galatea, another NDR robot that exhibited feminine characteristics. Intrigued by her enhancements brought forth through Rupert Burns, Andrew decided to collaborate with him and fund further research to enhance his own existence.

2068
11

Human-like Transformation

Through his partnership with Rupert, Andrew gained human-like features, symbolizing his ongoing transformation. This evolution represented his quest for a more authentic life experience, as he sought deeper connections and understanding of humanity.

12

Return to the Martin Family

In 2088, Andrew returned to the Martin family only to find that time had changed Amanda and her family. Portia, Amanda's granddaughter, initially hesitated but soon embraced Andrew, recognizing him as a treasured part of their legacy.

2088 Martin household
13

Amanda's Death and Andrew's Grief

Following Amanda's passing, Andrew struggled with the reality of mortality, prompting him to request Rupert to develop artificial organs that would allow him to experience life more fully. This led to Andrew developing the ability to eat, feel sensations, and love.

14

Seeking Legal Recognition

Andrew then focused on gaining recognition as a human being and pursued the legal right to marry Portia. However, the World Congress expressed concerns over the implications of an immortal being wanting to live as a human, leading Andrew to seek further transformation.

World Congress
15

Final Request and Legacy

On April 2, 2205, Andrew stood before the World Congress alongside Portia, advocating for his rights. Ultimately recognized as human, Andrew's life concluded shortly after, inspiring Portia to join him in the afterlife, signifying their eternal bond.

April 2, 2205 World Congress

Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 18:23

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Bicentennial Man Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Bicentennial Man

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Bicentennial Man

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More About Bicentennial Man

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