MSP Film Society Minneapolis, MN
Dr. Maria Gini
Morse-Alumni Distinguished Teaching Professor of Computer Science, University of Minnesota
Robot & Frank— Robo-Pets
Program Description
A discussion of robo-pets, the science of robotics and artificial intelligence, and the fact and fiction of robot companionship.
Presented At
MSP Film Society Minneapolis, MN
Film Synopsis
In the near future, an ex-jewel thief receives a gift from his son: a robot butler programmed to look after him. But soon the two companions try their luck as a heist team.
In the near future, Frank (Frank Langella) is a retired catburglar living alone, while his successful son, Hunter (James Marsden), tries to care for him from afar. Finally, Hunter gets him a robot caretaker (voiced by Peter Sarsgaard), and Frank soon learns that the robot is useful as a burglary aide. As Frank tries to restart his old profession, the uncomfortable realities of a changing world and his worsening dementia threaten to go beyond what any robot can do for him.
About the Speaker
Dr. Maria Gini is the Morse-Alumni Distinguished Teaching Professor of Computer Science, a College of Science and Engineering Distinguished Professor, and member of the Academy of Distinguished Teachers at the University of Minnesota. Her interests include artificial intelligence, robotics, and intelligent agents. She is the winner of the inaugural Distinguished Women Scholars Award from the University of Minnesota in 2001.