Summary of “Finch” by Miguel Sapochnik
One-line summary: “Finch” is a heartfelt post-apocalyptic film directed by Miguel Sapochnik, featuring Tom Hanks as a man who builds a robot to care for his beloved dog and navigate a dangerous world.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Miguel Sapochnik
- Writer: Craig Luck, Ivor Powell
- Key Actors: Tom Hanks as Finch, Caleb Landry Jones as Jeff, Skeet Ulrich as Sam, Laura Harrier as Weaver
- Music Director: Atticus Ross
- Director of Photography: Jo Willems
- Producers: Kevin Misher, Jack Rapke, Jacqueline Levine, Ivor Powell
Plot:
In a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by solar flares and a subsequent nuclear fallout, Finch, a robotics engineer, is one of the few survivors. With limited time due to radiation sickness, Finch builds a robot named Jeff to care for his loyal dog, Goodyear, after he’s gone. As Finch and his companions embark on a journey to find a safe place for Goodyear, they encounter various challenges and dangers.
Finch, a kind-hearted and resourceful man, teaches Jeff about the beauty of life and the importance of empathy. Jeff, an advanced robot with evolving emotions, struggles to understand the complexities of human emotions and the world they now inhabit. Along their journey, they meet Weaver, a survivor who joins them, forming an unlikely family.
As they traverse the desolate landscape, they face perilous situations, including violent storms, treacherous terrain, and encounters with hostile survivors. Through these trials, Finch’s unwavering determination to protect Goodyear and ensure Jeff’s growth as a sentient being is tested.
Themes and Motifs:
“Finch” explores themes of love, companionship, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It delves into the ethical implications of creating artificial intelligence and the potential for robots to develop emotions and empathy. The film also examines the fragility of life and the importance of finding purpose and connection in a world that seems devoid of hope.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release, “Finch” received positive reviews for its heartfelt performances, particularly Tom Hanks’ portrayal of Finch, and its thought-provoking exploration of humanity. While the film did not receive major awards or nominations, it left a lasting impact on audiences who were moved by its emotional storytelling and poignant themes.
“Finch” serves as a reminder of the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit, even in the darkest of times. It showcases Miguel Sapochnik’s directorial prowess and Tom Hanks’ ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters.
Recommendation:
“Finch” is a must-watch for fans of post-apocalyptic films who appreciate heartfelt storytelling and compelling performances. It offers a unique perspective on the genre, focusing on the emotional journey of its characters rather than relying solely on action and spectacle. The film’s exploration of the human-robot relationship and its underlying themes make it a thought-provoking and touching experience.
Memorable Quote:
“Goodbye, Goodyear. You’re the best thing I ever made.” – Finch
