Robot & Frank | What to Watch

Frank (Frank Langella) is a retired cat burglar who is becoming forgetful

Frank (Frank Langella) is a retired cat burglar who is becoming forgetful.

His son James Marsden presents him with a hi-tech carer, Robot (voiced by Peter Saarsgard), but initially the cranky Frank’s not interested in receiving Robot’s advice.

However, as the old-timer gets to know his persistent little helper, he realises he can revive his old trade with Robot as the ideal partner in crime.

Their low-key crime spree, which includes robbing the local library run by nice Susan Sarandon, provides some mild suspense as well as plenty of laughs.

What makes the film so beguiling and enchanting, however, are its shrewd insights into ageing and loneliness and Frank and Robot's affectionate, funny, charming - and ultimately moving - rapport.