The Iron Giant

An unlikely friendship develops between a gigantic robot and a 9-year-old boy who can see beyond his iron surface.

Nine-year-old Hogarth befriends a giant metal robot from outer space. Despite the robot's large scale and voracious appetite for metal, the two become friends.

However, not everyone is as understanding of the robot's scary facade as Hogarth, particularly in an era of Cold War paranoia and distrust.

Curator's Note

Brad Bird's animated feature draws inspiration and heart from Ted Hughes' 1968 children's novel The Iron Man.

On the surface, the Iron Giant might seem like a scary monster, but Hogarth looks closely to see the compassion and kindness within. Because he's made of iron, the Giant does not communicate what he is feeling as easily as other characters, and viewers will need to look closely to understand what he is feeling.

We will be inviting young viewers to do just that.

– Reece Goodwin; Curator (Film & TV)

Our special Kids' Flicks with Feelings sessions include a curator introduction where we introduce the concept of emotional intelligence to young viewers and a take-home activity pack.