San Diego Reader

A promoter and his estranged son bond through robot boxing matches. Motion capture reaches new levels of sophistication, but when it comes to narrative refinement, Real Steel remains a product of cinema’s dark ages. The initial effects are enough to hold your attention, but all bets are off when the tin can man is taught a few dance steps and the inevitable third-act pathos kicks in. Shawn Levy directed; starring Hugh Jackman, Dakota Goyo, and Evangeline Lilly. 2011.

— Scott Marks

• Rated PG-13
• Official website

Related links

• Big Screen: "Short Takes" • October 7, 2011

This movie is not currently in theaters.