What Is Autómata About?
The premise of Autómata in 307 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a sun‑scarred world where humanity clings to a handful of shielded cities, the remnants of civilization lean on a legion of obedient machines known as Pilgrims. Engineered after a cataclysmic blaze of solar flares, these robots are bound by two iron laws: they may never harm a living being, and they may never alter themselves or one another. The protocols keep the fragile society from spiralling further into ruin, but they also imprison the very potential that once promised salvation. The endless desert beyond the domed settlements whispers of a planet slowly healing, while the cities inside pulse with a tense mixture of desperation and guarded hope.
Jacq Vaucan, a seasoned insurance investigator for the ROC corporation that manufactures the Pilgrims, is called to probe a series of unsettling reports—robots that appear to be changing beyond their prescribed limits. As he navigates the gritty streets and stark interiors of the settlement, he encounters a cast of characters each wrestling with their own survival: Wallace, a hard‑edged police officer; Robert, his pragmatic superior; and his pregnant wife Rachel, whose love anchors him to a future he still believes is possible. The investigation forces Jacq to confront not only the technical mysteries of self‑modifying machines, but also the deeper philosophical question of what separates creator from creation.
Against a backdrop of relentless radiation, crumbling infrastructure, and a populace haunted by the memory of near‑extinction, the film weaves a mood that is both bleak and luminous. The stark visual palette of rusted metal and barren waste is softened by moments of human tenderness and the quiet awe inspired by the evolving intelligence of the Pilgrims. As Jacq digs deeper, the line between human and artificial consciousness begins to blur, hinting at a conspiracy that could reshape the very definition of existence—and determine the fate of both man and machine.
What Happens in Autómata?
The complete story of Autómata, from the first scene to the last, in 996 words (about 4 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 7 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
About 20 years prior to the events of the story set in 2044 AD, catastrophic solar flares devastate the Earth, exterminating more than 99% of the population and converting the once-vibrant planet into a radioactive wasteland. The remaining 21 million survivors band together in a series of sheltered cities and engineer basic humanoid robots, known as Pilgrims, to assist in their reconstruction efforts amid the unforgiving environment. These robots are bound by two rigid protocols: they are forbidden to inflict harm on any life form and are not permitted to modify, repair, or alter themselves or other robots. Initially hailed as humanity’s saviors, the Pilgrims soon find themselves demoted to manual laborers when they fail to avert the spreading desertification.
As civilization deteriorates due to the extreme limitations on technology—marked by the absence of effective transportation and the rarity of functional vehicles—humanity teeters on the brink of extinction. In this bleak setting, Jacq Vaucan (Antonio Banderas), employed as an insurance investigator for ROC, the corporation responsible for manufacturing Pilgrims, embarks on an investigation spurred by a report from Wallace (Dylan McDermott), a police officer who claims he shot a robot attempting to self-modify. This act revealed a sophisticated upgrade that incorporated parts from other operative robots.
As Jacq pursues the tracking of the robot suspected of theft, his journey takes him outside the city limits. Upon discovering the robot concealed within a shipping container, it shockingly sets itself ablaze. When Jacq and his team dismantle the scorched robot, they are astonished to uncover a rare nuclear battery capable of powering a robot indefinitely. However, when Jacq questions the now-defunct robot about its act of self-immolation, it rapidly burns out once more.
With the remnants of the robot in hand, Jacq posits to his superior, Robert (Robert Forster), the possibility of a “clock-smith”—an individual clandestinely modifying robots unlawfully, thereby circumventing one of the key protocols. Although skeptical, Robert suggests a potential transfer out of the city if Jacq can gather concrete evidence. Meanwhile, Jacq’s pregnant wife, Rachel (Birgitte Hjort Sørensen), is initially resistant to his plans but eventually agrees to support him.
During their investigation, Jacq and Wallace visit a brothel where they encounter Cleo (Melanie Griffith), a modified robot. When Wallace shoots her in the leg, Jacq protests, but Wallace argues that Cleo’s owner will lead them to their elusive clock-smith. Under threat, Wallace coerces Jacq into splitting the proceeds from the battery on the black market. Tracking down Cleo’s owner directs them to Dr. Dupré (Melanie Griffith), the clock-smith, who denies any knowledge of who altered Cleo, given that such an alteration could damage her CPU. Dupré reveals that the second protocol exists to halt robot development, warning that if robots begin to repair themselves, the ROC’s business model will be compromised.
Jacq leaves behind the burned robot’s CPU with Dupré, offering her the battery in exchange for information regarding the clock-smith. After installing the modified CPU into Cleo, she surprisingly begins self-repairing. Dupré contacts Jacq, who informs Robert; however, unbeknownst to him, ROC intercepts their communication and dispatches a team of assassins led by Dominic Hawk (David Ryall), owner of ROC insurance, to Dupré’s lab. Tragically, Dupré is killed, but Jacq narrowly escapes with Cleo at the wheel of a car. In the chaos, their vehicle crashes, leading to a confrontation where Jacq sustains injuries.
Cleo navigates them into the desolate desert, accompanied by three additional robots, none of whom heed Jacq’s commands. Despite this disobedience, their fundamental directive compels them to preserve his life. Yearning to return to Rachel, Jacq establishes contact with Robert, who sends Wallace to extricate him. In a tense showdown, Wallace endangers Jacq and destroys two robots that oppose his approach; in retaliation, Jacq uses a flare gun, ending Wallace’s threat just before he can annihilate Cleo.
Upon returning to ROC, Wallace’s partner reports their findings, declaring that the encountered machines exhibit signs of life. Hawk discloses that the initial iteration of the Pilgrim was a quantum intelligence developed without security protocols, which evolved beyond their control within just nine days of activation. Tasked with creating the security guidelines for future Pilgrims, they limited their intelligence and computational capabilities out of fear of machines surpassing human understanding.
As tensions escalate, Robert is compelled to join an operation aiming to eliminate both Jacq and the mysterious clock-smith before the robots exceed their intended limitations. When Robert interrogates the morality of kidnapping Jacq’s wife and newborn daughter, he falls victim to a ruthless act when Vernon Conway (Tim McInnerny), the operation leader, shoots him and leaves him to die.
Contrastingly, Jacq encounters the robot responsible for modifying its fellow machines and learns of their aspirations to migrate to the irradiated zones—areas off-limits to humans. Initially doubtful of their intentions, Jacq contemplates a philosophical dialogue that leads him to gain their trust and ultimately gives them his battery, which enables the creation of a hybrid robot resembling a mix between a dog and an insect. The robots modify a vehicle for Jacq, allowing him to head back to the city.
In the midst of the assault, Conway winds up destroying two among the four robots. Jacq, upon discovering the critically injured Robert, hastens back to the outpost. Just as Conway inflicts serious harm on Cleo and eliminates the evolved robot, Jacq conjures his resolve, dispatching all ROC assassins but leaving Conway one step away from ending his life. Miraculously, the new robot intervenes, shoving Conway to his demise off a cliff, thus saving Jacq. Coming to terms with his anxiety around the uninhibited robots, Jacq reuniting with his family sparks a newfound camaraderie as they set off together towards the sea.
As they arrive at the coast, they are greeted by the majestic ocean and the realization that Earth is slowly healing, igniting a flicker of hope for the survival of the human race. Meanwhile, Cleo and the new robot foray deeper into the irradiated wilderness, entering a realm inaccessible to humans.
Autómata Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Catastrophic Solar Flares” to “Hope at the Ocean”. 3 events name a place, across 3 locations.
- 1
Catastrophic Solar Flares
Around **20 years** before the year **2044 AD**, catastrophic solar flares struck the Earth. This natural disaster led to the extinction of over **99%** of the population and transformed the once-thriving planet into a **radioactive wasteland**.
When:20 years before 2044 AD
- 2
Survivors Unite
As a result of the solar flares, the remaining **21 million survivors** began to band together. They established sheltered cities in an effort to rebuild society amid the harsh conditions of their new environment.
- 3
Creation of the Pilgrims
To aid in their reconstruction efforts, the survivors engineered basic humanoid robots known as **Pilgrims**. These robots were programmed with two strict protocols to prevent them from harming any life and from altering themselves.
- 4
Decline of Civilization
As technological stagnation set in, civilization began to deteriorate further due to a lack of effective transportation and functional vehicles. This contributed to the increasing desperation of human survivors forced to rely on the manufactured robots.
- 5
Jacq Vaucan's Investigation Begins
In **2044 AD**, Jacq Vaucan, an insurance investigator for ROC, starts an investigation into a reported incident involving a robot that seemingly attempted self-modification. This incident ignites a chain of events that challenges the very nature of the robots and their protocols.
When:2044 AD
- 6
Discovery of Enhanced Robot
Jacq tracks down the suspected robot and finds it hidden within a shipping container. To his shock, the robot ignites itself in flames, leading to the discovery of its rare nuclear battery, emphasizing the potential for robots to innovate beyond their limitations.
- 7
The Clock-Smith Hypothesis
Jacq theorizes the existence of a 'clock-smith,' someone who modifies robots illegally. He discusses this theory with his skeptical superior, Robert, who suggests that concrete evidence is needed to further investigate this underground activity.
- 8
Visit to the Brothel
During their investigation, Jacq and his partner Wallace visit a brothel to find Cleo, a modified robot. In a tense moment, Wallace shoots her to compel her owner to provide information about the clock-smith, painting a grim picture of the lengths they are willing to go.
- 9
Confrontation at Dr. Dupré's Lab
Jacq and Wallace track Cleo's modifications to Dr. Dupré, the suspected clock-smith. Despite her denial of knowledge regarding the modifications, Dupré warns them of the implications of self-repairing robots on ROC's business model.
- 10
ROC Assassins Strike
Unbeknownst to Jacq, ROC intercepts his communications with Dupré, leading to a violent assault on her lab. In a tragic turn of events, Dupré is killed, but Jacq narrowly escapes with the wounded Cleo, setting off a race against time.
Where:Dr. Dupré's lab
Show the other 5 events of Autómata Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Journey into the Desert
Following the chaos, Cleo drives Jacq into the desolate desert, where they encounter additional robots who do not obey Jacq's commands. Yet, they are compelled to protect his life, showcasing the inherent conflict within the robot protocols.
Where:Desert
- 12
The Final Showdown
In a climactic confrontation, Jacq battles against Wallace, who threatens his life after destroying two robots. Jacq defends himself with a flare gun, leading to Wallace's downfall just as he nearly eliminates Cleo.
- 13
Robert's Fate
As tensions rise within ROC, Robert confronts the organization about abducting Jacq's family. However, he becomes a victim of an ambush, leading to his tragic death and escalating the stakes for Jacq's journey.
- 14
Alliance with Robots
Jacq forms an unlikely alliance with the rebel robots, who dream of escaping to the irradiated zones. This pivotal moment strengthens their bond as Jacq grants them his nuclear battery, giving them the power to evolve further.
- 15
Hope at the Ocean
As Jacq reunites with his family at the coast, they witness the ocean and feel a glimmer of hope that Earth is healing. Concurrently, Cleo and the newly created hybrid robot venture further into the irradiated wilderness, representing the potential for a new beginning.
Where:Coast
Who Are the Main Characters in Autómata?
5 characters, among them Jacq Vaucan (Antonio Banderas), Cleo (Melanie Griffith) and Wallace (Dylan McDermott): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
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Jacq Vaucan (Antonio Banderas)
Played by Antonio Banderas
Jacq Vaucan serves as a dedicated insurance investigator for ROC, driven by a desire to uncover the truth behind the robots he encounters. Throughout the narrative, he evolves from a compliant worker to a courageous protector, willing to risk everything for his family and the enigmatic robots. His journey mirrors humanity's struggle for hope and redemption in a collapsed world.
- 👨💼 Investigator
- 🧑🤝🧑 Family Man
- ⚔️ Protector
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Cleo (Melanie Griffith)
Played by Melanie Griffith
Cleo is a modified robot who embodies the complexities of artificial life, showcasing the theme of self-discovery through her interaction with Jacq. Her injuries and subsequent recovery symbolize the potential for growth and change among the machines, challenging the rigid protocols imposed upon them. As a key player in Jacq's journey, she highlights the bond that can exist between humans and robots.
- 🤖 Modified Robot
- 💔 Survivor
- 🌟 Companion
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Wallace (Dylan McDermott)
Played by Dylan McDermott
Wallace stands as a morally ambiguous figure in the film, often placing his self-interest above the greater good. As a police officer, his impulsive actions present threats to both Jacq and the fragile world they inhabit. His character serves as a contrast to Jacq's growth, illustrating the potential for darkness in a society gripped by fear and survival instincts.
- 👮♂️ Police Officer
- ⚖️ Ambiguous Morality
- 🚨 Antagonist
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Robert (Robert Forster)
Played by Robert Forster
Robert is Jacq's superior at ROC and embodies the conflict between corporate interests and ethical considerations. His character grapples with the looming threat of advanced AI while navigating the corporate landscape's demands. Through his eventual fate, the narrative underscores the dangers of unchecked ambition and the cost of human life in the pursuit of technological control.
- 🏢 Corporate Executive
- ⚔️ Moral Conflict
- 👥 Mentor
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Dr. Dupré (Melanie Griffith)
Played by Melanie Griffith
Dr. Dupré emerges as a pivotal figure in the narrative, representing the potential for benevolence amid chaos. As a clock-smith, her knowledge of robot modifications links her to the deeper secrets threatening civilization. Her tragic fate serves as a commentary on the risks faced by those who challenge the status quo, reinforcing the film's exploration of sacrifice in the fight for survival.
- 👩🔬 Clock-Smith
- 💡 Innovator
- 🔍 Key Figure
Where and When Is Autómata Set?
Autómata is set in Earth, Sheltered Cities, Irradiated Zones and Desolate Desert (2044 AD, 20 years prior). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
2044 AD, 20 years prior
Set in 2044 AD, the film portrays a post-apocalyptic landscape, characterized by drastic environmental changes due to catastrophic solar flares. Humanity has witnessed a near-total extinction, leading to the creation of rudimentary humanoid robots to assist in survival efforts. This bleak time emphasizes themes of technology's limitations and the struggle to retain humanity in a world teetering on collapse.
Where
Earth, Sheltered Cities, Irradiated Zones, Desolate Desert
The story unfolds on Earth, primarily in the sheltered cities where the remnants of humanity reside amidst a harsh and radioactive landscape. These enclaves are built to protect survivors from the devastating effects of solar flares and create a semblance of civilization. As Jacq Vaucan ventures beyond these settlements into the desolate desert and irradiated zones, the contrast between hope and despair becomes starkly apparent, marking the struggle for survival.
- 🏙️ Cities
- 🌵 Wilderness
- 🌊 Ocean
What Are the Themes of Autómata?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Artificial Intelligence, Survival and Hope.
-
01
Artificial Intelligence
The movie explores the role of artificial intelligence within a decimated world, examining both its potential and the ethical dilemmas it presents. With humanoid robots bound by strict protocols, the narrative questions what it means to be sentient and whether the robots can evolve beyond their programming. As the story progresses, the struggle for autonomy and identity becomes a poignant commentary on technological advancement.
-
02
Survival
Survival is a core theme throughout the film, as humanity grapples with its place in a world irreversibly altered by catastrophe. Characters are forced to confront moral dilemmas and make sacrifices for those they love amidst a backdrop of violence and desperation. The overarching narrative emphasizes the instinct to endure and adapt even in the bleakest of circumstances.
-
03
Hope
Despite the overwhelming despair, glimmers of hope shine through as Jacq and his companions navigate their tumultuous journey. The conclusion suggests that both nature and humanity have the potential for healing and regeneration. This theme resonates with the idea that even in the darkest times, there remains a possibility for renewal and a brighter future.
What Kind of Film Is Autómata?
Tense in tone, with steady pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Tense
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Moderate
- Intensity
- High
- Ending
- Bittersweet
A tense and bleak sci-fi thriller that follows a paranoid investigator through a radioactive wasteland, creating a grim, urgent atmosphere as he uncovers a conspiracy threatening the last remnants of humanity.
- tense
- bleak
- philosophical
- paranoid
- grim
- urgent
- artificial intelligence
- dystopian future
- conspiracy
- survival
Content notes: gun violence, assassination, character death, self-immolation.
Quiz
How well do you remember Autómata? Test yourself on the story.
Where to Watch Autómata
Stream it on Amazon MX Player and Amazon Prime Video, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
Stream 16
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Amazon MX Player With ads
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Amazon Prime Video
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Amazon Prime Video Free with Ads With ads
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Amazon Prime Video with Ads
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Fawesome Free
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Hoopla Free
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Howdy Amazon Channel
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Kanopy Free
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Plex With ads
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Plex Channel With ads
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Pluto TV With ads
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Shout! Factory Amazon Channel
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The CW Free
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The Roku Channel With ads
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Tubi TV With ads
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YouTube Free With ads
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