Just released, Real Steel is a family action movie starring High Jackman. In a similar vein to Transformers, it is set in a near future world where human boxers have been replaced by robots.

 A retired pugilist transitions to the business side of the ropes after human boxers are replaced by robotic ones in director Shawn Levy’s feature-length adaptation of the Twilight Zone episode “Steel.” Charlie Kenton (Hugh Jackman) was a true contender when the sport of boxing was changed forever. Now, instead of humans duking it out for the masses, huge, powerful steel robots trade blows in the ring. As a result, former gladiator Charlie has been forced into the role of two-bit promoter, piecing together cut-rate fighting bots from scrap metal as he makes the rounds on the underground boxing circuit. Just when it seems that Charlie has sunken to the nadir of his career, his estranged 11 year old son, Max (Dakota Goyo), offers him the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at a comeback by constructing and training a true champion. Now the stakes are higher than ever before, and Charlie is about to get a second chance at leaving an indelible mark on the sport he once dedicated his life to.

Reviews are mixed. Some comments from reviewers:

• The story remains sadly mired in botdom, which leads to some boredom.
• All things considered, it is a well-wrought piece of entertainment, confidently paced, although its necessary subplots are little more than dutiful filler sandwiched between fight sequences.
• Family-friendly, inspirational action drama with a recycled Wii-redemption.
• If there had to be a Rock Em Sock Em Robots movie, I’m actually kinda pleased it was this one.
• Thanks to an admittedly corny script, some amazing fight scenes, and a terrific cast, “Real Steel’s” actually a winner by split decision.

I watched it this weekend and have to say that even though I wanted to hate it, I came out kind of liking it. For pure family entertainment it was actually pretty good. For what it was, it was well done and, as a family we came away happy. Totally forgettable and I doubt it will win any awards, but a couple of hours pleasantly spent. And my son liked the robots.

What did you think? Look forward to hearing any comments below.