North American distributor NEON has officially announced the much-anticipated release of “Robot Dreams,” the debut animated feature from Spanish director Pablo Berger, set to hit New York City screens on May 31st. The film, which garnered widespread acclaim and an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature, is based on the graphic novel by Sara Varon.
“Robot Dreams” unfolds in a dialogue-free, 2D-animated narrative, chronicling the tale of Dog, a solitary canine navigating the bustling streets of 1980s NYC. Inspired by the original source material’s poignant exploration of human relationships, love, and loss, the film follows Dog’s endeavor to construct a robotic companion. Their burgeoning friendship flourishes against the backdrop of the cityscape until a pivotal moment forces Dog to part ways with Robot on a summer night at the beach.
Having premiered at Cannes in 2023 and subsequently screened at Annecy, “Robot Dreams” captivated audiences in Spain and France following its theatrical releases at the end of the year. Alongside its prestigious Oscar nomination, the film clinched two Goya Awards for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Animated Film, among other accolades, including the Annie Award for Best Animated Feature – Independent.
Pablo Berger helmed the project, assuming multiple roles as director, screenwriter, and producer alongside a talented team including Ibon Cormenzana, Ignasi Estapé, Sandra Tapia, Jérôme Vidal, and Sylvie Pialat. “Robot Dreams” was brought to life through collaborative efforts from Arcadia Motion Pictures (Spain), Noodles Production (France), Les Films du Worso (France), Spanish public television service RTVE, and platform Movistar Plus+.
The upcoming New York premiere at Film Forum and AMC Lincoln Square promises audiences an immersive cinematic experience, inviting viewers into the enchanting world of “Robot Dreams” and its poignant exploration of companionship and loss amidst the vibrant backdrop of 1980s New York City.
