Astro Boy

Astro Boy

movie

PG, 2009, Animation, Action

WISE
58%

WISE Score

52

Avg. Tomatometer

A robot boy searches for his identity in this visually dated 2009 adaptation that has heart but lacks the spark to make it truly memorable.

IMDb6.2
RT Critics52%
MC53
Common Sense Media
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Screenwise Verdict

Here's the thing: Astro Boy has a good heart and decent themes about identity and acceptance, but it's stuck in that awkward 2009 CGI purgatory where it looked fine then but feels clunky now. The story touches on surprisingly heavy stuff—a kid dies, gets replaced by a robot, dad can't handle it—which gives it emotional weight, but the execution is just... fine.

The 52% critic score and 50% audience score tell you what you need to know: it's not bad, but it's not great either. Kids 7-9 might enjoy the robot battles and flying scenes, but don't expect them to be quoting it or asking for repeat viewings. It's the kind of movie you put on when you've exhausted everything else on the streaming service.

If your kid is into robots or anime, it's a decent introduction to a legendary character. But if they're used to the visual splendor of modern animation, this might feel like watching something from the Stone Age. It's perfectly safe and has some nice messages, but it's also perfectly skippable.

Age Fit

Best for kids 7-11 who can handle some emotional complexity and dated animation. The themes are meaningful but the execution is middling, so younger kids might enjoy the action while older tweens will likely find it boring and visually outdated.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
68

The core story of a robot boy searching for identity and acceptance models themes of belonging and self-discovery. The emotional arc centers on rejection and finding purpose, which can be meaningful, though the father-son relationship involves grief and replacement that may feel heavy. Generally positive messaging about heroism and helping others, with cooperative elements throughout.

Imaginative
72

Based on the classic manga, it presents a futuristic world with robots, flying cities, and sci-fi concepts that invite wonder. The premise of an android discovering his identity offers philosophical depth for kids to consider what makes someone 'real.' Visual creativity in the animation style and world-building, though the 2009 CGI hasn't aged particularly well. Encourages thinking about technology, humanity, and purpose.

Safe
75

Common Sense Media rates it for age 7, suggesting manageable content for elementary-aged kids. Action sequences involve robot battles and some peril, but violence is cartoonish and bloodless. The opening involves a child's death (replaced by the robot protagonist), which could be emotionally intense but isn't graphic. No inappropriate content, sexual themes, or language concerns. Some scary moments with villains and action intensity, but within expected bounds for an animated action-adventure.

Enriching
62

Explores meaningful themes about identity, acceptance, what it means to be human, and finding your place in the world. The father-son dynamic, though flawed, opens discussions about grief, expectations, and unconditional love. Touches on class division (surface vs. underground dwellers) and prejudice against robots. However, the execution is somewhat generic and the 52% critic score suggests the storytelling doesn't fully capitalize on its potential. Entertaining enough but not particularly memorable or impactful.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Explores surprisingly deep themes about identity, acceptance, and what makes us human—good fodder for thoughtful kids
  • Action sequences with robot battles and flying scenes keep the energy up without being too intense
  • The underdog story of finding your place when you don't fit in resonates emotionally
  • Based on the iconic Osamu Tezuka manga, introducing kids to a legendary character in anime history
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What to Watch For

  • The opening involves a child's death (in an accident) that drives the father's grief—emotionally heavy and may need context for sensitive kids
  • 2009 CGI has aged poorly; modern kids used to Spider-Verse or recent Pixar may find it visually unengaging
  • Robot combat violence throughout, though bloodless and cartoonish
  • The 50-52% ratings across the board aren't wrong—it's kind of forgettable and may not hold attention

Conversation Starters

  • "If you could have robot powers like Astro, what would you want to be able to do?"
  • "Why do you think Astro's dad had such a hard time accepting him? Have you ever felt like someone wanted you to be different?"
  • "The movie shows people treating robots badly just because they're robots. Why do you think people sometimes treat others unfairly just because they're different?"
  • "What do you think makes someone 'real'—having a body, having feelings, or something else?"

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