ROBOT DREAMS-Melancholy Animated Gem Dog Builds Robot Friend

I was completely charmed and somewhat disarmed by the grace and simplicity of this animated full-length film available on Apple. A fully vibrant NYC setting settles in on a humanlike Dog who walks on two legs, microwaves his macaroni dinner and plays video games alone on his couch when not looking out his window into other windows at happy couples cozying up on their couches while munching popcorn. There is a feeling of forlornness with Dog which has us wishing him luck in finding companionship. He watches a promo for those alone but don't want to be - no longer have to be by buying a robot (with some assembly required). This appeals to Dog. His order is placed and the next day delivery is made by a bull with a nose ring who lugs in the heavy box containing the robot. The aesthetic for this imaginary NYC where animals reside is simply drawn but elaborately detailed. The montage of changing seasons causes one to have a visceral response to the crisp fall weather and lightly falling snow.  I won't go into further detail but the two become fast friends. They share walks in the park holding hands, eating hot dogs, lick melting ice cream cones and play in the ocean. Aptly called "Robot Dreams" we are inside the dream scape mind of Robot who gets left behind inadvertently on the beach. Despite his imprisoned solitude, his mood remains unflappable except for a dream where he becomes agitated believing he's replaced in Dog's affections. So too, Dog has his own dreams. The blurred line between dreaming, being awake and being inside an imaginary world has its own soporific lull. This is not a non-stop cheery film, but it's always beguiling and thoroughly appealing. Doggedly determined to meet new acquaintances, Dog tries several group activities with aplomb even if they are a bust. On a lark, he takes a kite into Central Park and attracts an attractive Duck who takes him under her wing. Meanwhile, Robot remains marooned and dismembered on the beach still hoping to reach Dog. Animated love does not run smoothly but truly, this is an original work of art that ingratiates itself with its magical style that leaves the viewer with plenty to smile about. The film feels longer than it needs to be but it lends itself to stopping, restarting and returning to over and over, again. I highly recommend ROBOT DREAMS.