Best Version Of I, Robot (2004) On Home Media

If you are into high-end home theater, check out our Display and Audio Calibration Guides to maximize your experience.

Introduction

This article is part of a series where we investigate which is the best version of particular movies on home media. In this article, we will look at the different releases of I, Robot (2004) on Blu Ray, UHD Blu Ray – and streaming if available – and look at the specs and quality of each release to determine the best way to watch I, Robot (2004).

I, Robot (2004) Summary

I, Robot (2004) is set in the year 2035, where robots are a common part of everyday life, governed by the Three Laws of Robotics meant to ensure they cannot harm humans. Detective Del Spooner, distrustful of robots, is called to investigate the apparent suicide of Dr. Alfred Lanning, a robotics pioneer at U.S. Robots and Mechanical Men.

Spooner suspects foul play and believes a robot may have been involved, which challenges the foundation of the Three Laws. Sonny, a highly advanced robot, becomes central to the investigation, raising questions about artificial intelligence and autonomy. As Spooner delves deeper, he uncovers a larger conspiracy involving the future of human-robot coexistence. The film explores themes related to technology, free will, and ethical dilemmas surrounding artificial intelligence, blending mystery with action. It is loosely inspired by Isaac Asimov’s short story collection, though the plot is mostly original.

I, Robot (2004) Cast Summary

Actor’s Name	Character’s Name	Role Summary
Will Smith	Detective Del Spooner	A skeptical detective who investigates Dr. Lanning’s death and mistrusts robots.
Bridget Moynahan	Dr. Susan Calvin	A robotic psychologist who helps Spooner with the investigation, specializing in robotic behavior.
Alan Tudyk	Sonny	A unique robot with advanced capabilities and emotions, central to the investigation.
James Cromwell	Dr. Alfred Lanning	The deceased robotics pioneer whose apparent suicide leads to the investigation.
Bruce Greenwood	Lawrence Robertson	The CEO of U.S. Robots, who plays a key role in controlling the robot industry.
Chi McBride	Lt. John Bergin	Spooner’s superior officer who balances skepticism and trust in Spooner’s instincts.
Shia LaBeouf	Farber	Spooner’s young, street-wise acquaintance who offers comic relief in the film.
Fiona Hogan	V.I.K.I.	The central artificial intelligence controlling U.S. Robots’ infrastructure.
Adrian Ricard	Granny	Spooner’s supportive grandmother who has a small but significant role in his personal life.
Terry Chen	Chin	Technician at U.S. Robots who assists Dr. Calvin during the investigation.

I, Robot (2004) Home Media Releases (Blu Ray and Streaming)

I, Robot (2004) was published on the following contemporary home formats.

Table 1: I, Robot (2004) – Blu-ray & UHD Blu-ray Releases (Technical Specs)

Release Name / Format	Release Date	Video Codec	Audio Codec	Video Bitrate	Audio Bitrate
I, Robot – Blu-ray	March 11, 2008	AVC	DTS-HD MA 5.1	25.24 Mbps	Lossless
I, Robot – 3D Blu-ray	October 23, 2012	AVC (3D)	DTS-HD MA 7.1	25.24 Mbps	Lossless
I, Robot – UHD Blu-ray	October 25, 2016	HEVC (HDR10)	DTS-HD MA 7.1	25.24 Mbps	Lossless
I, Robot – 4K UHD Steelbook (Australia)	January 21, 2020	HEVC (HDR10)	DTS-HD MA 7.1	M	Lossless

---

Table 2: Review Scores & Mastering Details

Release Name / Format	Video Score	Audio Score	DI Resolution	DNR Used	AI Used
I, Robot – Blu-ray	4/5	4.5/5	2K	M	M
I, Robot – 3D Blu-ray	4.5/5	5/5	2K	M	M
I, Robot – UHD Blu-ray	5/5	4.5/5	2K	Yes	No
I, Robot – 4K UHD Steelbook (Australia)	5/5	4.5/5	2K	Yes	No

---

Explanation of Table 2:

• Video/Audio Scores: These scores are sourced from Blu-ray.com reviews, where:
  • Video scores reflect the quality of image clarity, color grading, contrast, and sharpness.
  • Audio scores reflect sound quality, channel separation, and depth.
• DI Resolution: The film was completed on a 2K Digital Intermediate, meaning both 4K UHD releases are upscales from 2K, not true 4K. However, the reviews particularly praise the UHD transfer for its impressive HDR implementation, leading to significantly improved contrast and colors.
• DNR (Digital Noise Reduction): DNR has been applied to the UHD releases, most notably softening certain textures. However, many reviewers still praised the improved image quality due to superior HDR color grading and detail retention in more dynamic scenes.
• AI Used: There is no confirmed use of AI-assisted mastering for this film.

---

Summary of Buying Recommendations:

Budget Option: The standard Blu-ray (2008) is a solid choice, with good picture quality for 1080p (4/5 video score). Best for those not planning to upgrade to UHD.

Best Quality: The UHD Blu-ray (2016) or 4K UHD Steelbook (2020) offer the best picture (5/5) and enhanced HDR, despite the DNR. Recommended for those with a 4K setup.

3D Fans: If you have a 3D setup, the I, Robot 3D Blu-ray (2012) is a good option with strong video and audio scores (5/5 for audio).

Please note that we have tried to make sure as much as possible that this information is correct by referencing multiple sources but still keeping it simple and accurate across release regions. Please let us know in the comments if you find any errors.

I, Robot (2004) Legacy Formats

I, Robot (2004) was also published on the following legacy formats:

Table: I, Robot (2004) Home Video Releases

Release Name / Format	Release Date	Aspect Ratio	Director’s Cut
I, Robot – VHS	December 14, 2004	Pan & Scan, Widescreen	No
I, Robot – DVD (Single-Disc)	December 14, 2004	Widescreen, Pan & Scan	No
I, Robot – DVD (2-Disc Collector’s Edition)	December 14, 2004	Widescreen	No
I, Robot – D-Theater	N/A (Cancelled)	N/A	No
I, Robot – Laserdisc (Japan)	2005 (Exact date M)	Widescreen	No

---

Summary of Releases:

1. VHS (December 14, 2004):
   • The VHS version of I, Robot was released late in 2004, likely one of the last major Hollywood releases to be distributed on VHS.
   • It was available in both Pan & Scan (formatted to 4:3 for older TVs) and Widescreen (2.35:1), which preserved the original theatrical aspect ratio.
   • No director’s cut was included; it featured the standard theatrical version.
2. DVD (December 14, 2004):
   • Released on the same day as the VHS version, DVD came in two main editions:
     • Single-Disc Edition: Available in both Widescreen and Pan & Scan formats.
     • 2-Disc Collector’s Edition: Focused on Widescreen (anamorphic 2.35:1), preserving the original cinematic presentation and offering additional special features like behind-the-scenes footage, commentaries, and documentaries.
   • No director’s cut was included, just the theatrical version.
3. Laserdisc (Japan):
   • A Laserdisc version of I, Robot was made available exclusively in Japan in 2005, in widescreen format. This was one of the final Laserdisc releases as the format was largely phased out in most regions by then.
   • No director’s cut was included on the Laserdisc version, only the standard theatrical cut.
4. D-Theater:
   • Similar to Terminator 3, a D-Theater release for I, Robot was planned but then cancelled. D-Theater was an HD format similar to VHS, but it never gained widespread adoption.
   • Therefore, there is no confirmed release for the film in this format.

---

Key Notes:

• Aspect Ratio: Most releases offered options for either Pan & Scan (for older 4:3 television sets) or Widescreen (2.35:1 aspect ratio, reflecting the theatrical presentation). The Widescreen format is preferred for preserving the original vision of the director.
• Director’s Cut: I, Robot did not have a director’s cut on any of the home video formats listed. All releases contained the theatrical version of the film.

Which version of I, Robot (2004) should you watch?

When choosing the best disc version of I, Robot (2004) based on review scores and forum discussions (including Blu-ray.com, AVSForum, etc.), it primarily comes down to your preferences in regard to video quality, audio quality, and whether you plan to future-proof your collection with a 4K release or not. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you choose the best version:

Best for Picture & Audio Quality (Top Recommendation)

I, Robot – UHD Blu-ray (2016)

• Video Quality: Highly praised, scoring 5/5 on Blu-ray.com. While the UHD version is upscaled from a 2K Digital Intermediate, the use of HDR10 significantly improves color contrasts (especially in dark and vibrant scenes) and highlights. The added sharpness and clarity make it an impressive leap over Blu-ray, despite its 2K source.
• Audio Quality: Also strong with DTS-HD MA 7.1, scoring 4.5/5 on Blu-ray.com. It’s dynamic, with great surround separation, making the robot action sequences sound immersive.
• DNR (Digital Noise Reduction): DNR is applied, which slightly softens some textures, but this is a common debate among fans. Many are fine with this, as it doesn’t drastically affect detail, while others who prefer visible grain might find this a drawback.

Why Choose It:

• This is the best choice for those with a 4K UHD setup who value both HDR improvements in visual quality and excellent surround sound. If you want top-tier video and sound quality and are looking for the most modern release, this is the definitive version.
• Forum Consensus: Most enthusiasts and video/audio purists recommend the UHD Blu-ray for its significant visual and auditory improvements, despite it being an upscale from 2K.

Best for 3D Enthusiasts

I, Robot – 3D Blu-ray (2012)

• Video Quality: The 3D Blu-ray version scores 4.5/5 on Blu-ray.com for video, with excellent depth and less “gimmicky” use of 3D. It capitalizes on the film’s futuristic look, with standout sequences, especially robot-related effects and action.
• Audio Quality: Scores a solid 5/5 for its DTS-HD MA 7.1 audio track. The audio separation and clarity impress, making it an immersive experience even for older setups using the 7.1 setup.

Why Choose It:

• If you have a 3D-capable setup and want the immersive three-dimensional experience, this 3D release is the best choice. It maintains excellent audio and almost pristine video, giving a refreshing and deeper experience to sci-fi lovers.
• Forum Consensus: 3D fans echo this recommendation, citing it as one of the better 3D releases, although it doesn’t add much in terms of the narrative, it makes for a fun visual experience.

Best for Value and General High-Definition

I, Robot – Blu-ray (2008)

• Video Quality: On standard Blu-ray, the film scores 4/5 on Blu-ray.com. The 1080p transfer holds up well for its time, though it lacks the depth and dynamic range brought out in the UHD release. Colors are strong and detail is solid but not as refined as the UHD.
• Audio Quality: The Blu-ray includes DTS-HD MA 5.1, scoring 4.5/5, with strong clarity and detail, though it lacks some of the immersive depth you’ll find in higher-end home theater setups.

Why Choose It:

• If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option and don’t have a 4K TV, the standard 2008 Blu-ray release is still a solid choice with respectable video and audio performance.
• Forum Consensus: Most users agree that the Blu-ray still offers high-quality video and sound, with some calling it an effective and inexpensive way to enjoy the film if you’re not upgrading to 4K soon.

Collectors’ Special Edition

I, Robot – 2-Disc DVD Collector’s Edition (2004)

• Aspect Ratio and Features: Released during the DVD era, this set includes Widescreen presentation (anamorphic 2.35:1) and a ton of special features (commentaries, behind-the-scenes footage, making-of documentaries).
• Video & Audio Quality: As far as DVDs go, the video quality is decent for standard definition, but nowhere near what you’d get with Blu-ray or UHD. The audio track is Dolby Digital 5.1, which is good for DVD but can’t compare with the lossless audio on Blu-ray.

Why Choose It:

• If you’re a collector or are particularly interested in bonus materials and behind-the-scenes content, this Collector’s Edition DVD is the way to go.
• Forum Consensus: Collectors appreciate this for its historical value and extra content, but it’s not the top choice for those purely focused on audio-visual quality.

Table Summary for Key Recommendations:

Release Name	Video Score	Audio Score	Forum Consensus Summary
UHD Blu-ray (2016)	5/5	4.5/5	Best overall picture and sound. Forum favorite for home theater setups with HDR benefits.
3D Blu-ray (2012)	4.5/5	5/5	Excellent for 3D fans. Provides an immersive 3D experience for those with a 3D-capable system.
Blu-ray (2008)	4/5	4.5/5	Best value for high-definition. Offers solid video and sound, recommended for those not upgrading to 4K soon.
DVD Collector’s Edition (2004)	Standard Def	Standard Def	For collectors. Features bonus content but lacks the audio/visual quality of Blu-ray or UHD.

---

Bottom Line:

Best Value: The Blu-ray (2008) is excellent for those on a budget or not yet upgrading to 4K, offering solid high-definition performance with less cost.

Best Overall: If you’re ready for 4K immersion and HDR, the UHD Blu-ray (2016) is the top choice based on both review scores and forum popularity.

For 3D Enthusiasts: The 3D Blu-ray (2012) delivers a great 3D experience with impressive sound and good depth.

Why Audio and Video Calibration is Important?

Movies only play accurately on home systems if both the display and audio system are calibrated to reference. Here at Simple Home Cinema, we are fanatic about accurate playback to the way the director intended. This is why we created both free and premium calibration guides, so you can calibrate your audio and video for optimal playback.

Audio Calibration	Video Calibration
Audyssey – Dirac Live – YPAO – All	Free Guides
Premium Guides	Premium Guide