Most science fiction stories that deal with someone getting a robot companion follow a certain path. The two characters in question will develop a bond before overcoming a great adversity. At this point, one of two things happen. They live happily ever after or the robot has learned what it is to be human and decides to make the supreme sacrifice.
Toto is a science fiction short screening at the Fantasia Film Festival. The story is about an older woman who receives a robot companion named Toto. The relationship seems to be developing well until everything is updated. The story seems like it is going to be a run of the mill tearjerker. To some extent, it is. Watching Toto and his new owner get to know each other is filled with the cuteness and laughs that are inherent in this type of film.
The montage in Toto is much more grounded. It is more a simple tale of friendship than anything else. There is also a sadness in Toto. A feeling of loneliness is conveyed by the film even in its most heartfelt moments. Nonetheless, the short maximizes emotion by keeping things very subtle. Nothing is ever over the top making for a more relatable science fiction story that will resonate with audiences.
