The Iron Giant

Sunday, October 15, 12:00 noon
Brad Bird, USA 1999 (86 min.)

On SFMOMA’s semiannual Family Day, we present the masterful classic The Iron Giant. The film, directed by animation guru Brad Bird (The Incredibles), chronicles the touching relationship between a boy and a giant alien robot. Intended to be a weapon, the robot must decide whether or not to use its destructive powers against the earthlings that mean it harm. Reminiscent of the science-fiction classic The Day the Earth Stood Still, the film focuses on the ability of mankind to learn how to trust each other and the unknown. With absolutely stunning artwork, terrific voicing (Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick Jr., Vin Diesel, Eli Marienthal) and a humanistic storyline, The Iron Giant has become a cult classic among followers of animation.

Up until the film’s release, many felt that the U.S. didn’t have the talent or creativity to compete with Japanese-produced animated features. But for many, The Iron Giant is considered as good as anything released worldwide since the mid-’90s and is revered on a par with works made by Hayao Miyazaki (Howl’s Moving Castle, Spirited Away). This special screening, sure to delight families and animation aficionados, offers a pristine archival print.

—Sean Uyehara