How to Build a Better Boy

The story unfolds in a suburban neighborhood centered around the Hartley family home and a local high school. The Pentagon connection through Mae's father adds a layer of government/military technology to the otherwise typical teen setting, blending everyday suburban life with advanced defense tech.

The film is set in the present day, contemporary era. It follows a single school year arc, with the story culminating at the Homecoming dance. The technology shown reflects real-world advances in robotics and defense systems, grounding the sci-fi elements in a recognizable modern timeframe.

The film explores the ethical dilemmas of creating life-like AI through Albert, questioning whether engineered perfection can replace genuine human connection. It examines responsibility when advanced technology falls into wrong hands and the unintended ripple effects on personal relationships. The story ultimately suggests that playing creator with sentient technology carries significant moral weight.

Mae's longing for a real relationship drives the central tension between synthetic appeal and human truth. The story demonstrates that true connection requires vulnerability and honesty rather than flawless facades. The resolution emphasizes choosing authentic human relationships over manufactured perfection.

Gabby and Mae must collaborate under pressure, testing the limits of loyalty and trust. Bart's practical support and evolving dynamics between Gabby and Bart highlight how friendships adapt when unexpected technological chaos erupts. The story reinforces that solidarity and genuine support matter more than convenience.

The narrative addresses the dangers of weaponizing technology through Black Sigma's pursuit of Albert and the Pentagon's involvement. It contrasts protective intentions with the moral risks of deploying autonomous devices. The climax demonstrates the ethical burden that comes with creating advanced technology capable of harm.

Mae Hartley is a bright tenth grader portrayed by Kelli Berglund who longs to be noticed by the popular Jaden Stark. Her decision to fabricate a relationship to cover a lie sets the entire plot in motion. Throughout the story, Mae grows as she learns to prioritize authenticity over manufactured popularity.

Gabby Harrison is Mae's tech-savvy friend played by China Anne McClain. She designs the X-17 program that creates Albert, initially pursuing a shortcut to social status. As the situation escalates, Gabby faces consequences for meddling with life-like AI and grows alongside Mae, eventually reevaluating her views on romance.

Albert is a cutting-edge AI-powered robot soldier created by Gabby through the X-17 program. Designed as the perfect boyfriend for Mae, he possesses advanced capabilities that attract both popularity and danger. Albert represents the film's exploration of engineered sentience and the ethical questions surrounding artificial life.

Bart Hartley is Mae's practical older brother portrayed by Matt Shively. He possesses technical aptitude and agrees to help fix the malfunctioning Albert. Bart becomes entangled with Gabby as they work together, eventually helping to expose Albert's secret. He embodies loyalty and supportive family dynamics.

The primary antagonists are Black Sigma, an international arms dealer group represented by Zephyr, Weevil, and Pox. They pursue Albert for his valuable military technology. General McFee represents the military authority response to Albert's existence as a national security concern. Together, they create the external threats that heighten the stakes.