The movie adaptation of "The Wild Robot" is based on Peter Brown's bestselling novel. It blends science fiction with nature to explore what it truly means to be alive, to belong, and to care for others, through the eyes of a machine. As with Kensuke's Kingdom, I had not read the book before watching the movie so I did not know what to expect. However, my older brother read it a few years ago and really enjoyed it. My high hopes were not disappointed - although it's aimed at 5-11 year olds it's a movie suitable for all ages and I think some of the themes explored would be missed by a really young audience. 

The story follows a robot called ROZZUM unit 7134, or "Roz" after a cargo ship crashes during a storm, and a crate containing Roz washes up on a remote island. The robot is designed for work and service, but does not know how to communicate with the animals on the island. Roz has to learn how to adapt and survive, and while doing so finds herself in charge of an orphaned gosling she names Brightbill who needs to grow and be strong enough for the winter migration. As she learns to take care of him, she slowly earns the trust and friendship of the island's animal community.

There are plenty of heart warming and funny moments as we follow Roz and Brightbill's journey together.  Roz's character development is a central theme in the movie - her original programming allowed her to override this to display empathy, courage and selflessness, qualities that are more often associated with human beings than machinery.  The bond between Roz and Brightbill, in particular, tugs at your heart strings (yes, my Mum cried!), because it mirrors the love of a parent towards their child despite them being different species - and one of them isn't even biological!

Underlying Themes

I think one of the most important themes in the movie is the exploration of identity and belonging.  Roz is not a natural inhabitant of the island, and her constant battles with being an outsider are an ongoing theme.  However she adapts, learns, and manages to form relationships, which shows how community and connection are not defined by where we come from but by care and acceptance.

Another key theme running through the story is nature versus technology.  Neither is superior to the other, but instead we are shown how they can exist alongside each other.  Roz is learning all the time from the natural world, and in return she is able to contribute something truly unique.

The theme of compassion and empathy is also central.  Roz is a robot, but she's able to develop a deep emotional connection to those around her.  Her care for Brightbill, her willingness to protect others, and her gradual acceptance in the community show that empathy is not just something limited to humans - it's something that can be learned, practised and shared.

Finally, the story touches on sacrifice and selflessness.  Roz often puts other's needs first, and often before her own safety, showing that love and care often involve making difficult choices for the good of others.

Visually, the movie is really impressive.  The excellent animation captures a lush, vibrant island that is brutal at the same time as being beautiful.  We are shown the changing seasons, the predator-prey dynamics, and the fragility of the natural world.  The sound design helps build tension, warmth and emotion in all the right places too. 

The Wild Robot is more than just an adventure story. It is a deeply emotional and philosophical one, which is visually captivating. After watching it, I had a conversation with my Mum where we reflected on the meaning of connection, identity and kindness.  We also had a discussion about the importance of Roz's emotional growth, and she asked me to think about the role of artificial intelligence.

Roz is a robot. Supposedly unable to feel human emotions. She was created purely for practical tasks, yet she gradually develops the ability to care, empathise and love. Is she simply learning and mirroring behaviours based on logic and what she sees, or is she truly experiencing emotion? If so, how is that even possible?

One of the most powerful symbols in the story is Roz's ability to override her programming to behave with compassion and empathy. Roz wasn't designed to feel, but she chooses to protect, nurture and connect, which suggests that these attributes may not be limited to humans alone.

In the real world, AI systems can already mimic human language, problem-solve, and learn from interactions. But the idea of an AI product developing genuine emotions and self-awareness in The Wild Robot invites us to imagine what might happen if machines did evolve or form emotional intelligence. In the story, this has been shown to be a positive thing.

But could there also be a darker, more sinister side to this? If robots did develop emotional awareness or free will like Roz, would they choose empathy and kindness, or could there be dangerous consequences if ethical frameworks aren't put in place by programmers. Who would decide what values they follow? While Roz is a force for good, her story teaches us that technological advances must come with responsibility.