The film is set in a near-future where human boxers have been replaced by robots in the sport of boxing. Charlie Kenton (Hugh Jackman), a former boxer, now makes a living in the robot boxing underworld, traveling from one small venue to another with his robot fighters.
Charlie’s life takes an unexpected turn when he learns that his estranged son, Max (Dakota Goyo), is left in his care after the death of Max’s mother. Initially reluctant to take on the responsibility, Charlie and Max bond over their shared interest in robot boxing. Together, they discover an outdated but once legendary robot named Atom in a junkyard.
Against the odds, Atom proves to have exceptional abilities, and Charlie and Max decide to enter him into the professional robot boxing circuit. Atom’s journey through the ranks captures the attention of the media and fans, leading to a shot at the championship against the undefeated champion, Zeus.
The climax of the film occurs during the championship bout between Atom and Zeus. The underdog Atom faces the technologically advanced and seemingly unbeatable Zeus in a high-stakes match. The film explores themes of resilience, redemption, and the bond between a father and son.
The movie concludes with Atom putting up an incredible fight against Zeus, earning the respect of the audience and the robot boxing community. While Atom doesn’t win the championship, the film emphasizes the personal victories and growth experienced by Charlie and Max.
“Real Steel” received generally positive reviews for its exciting robot boxing sequences, the father-son dynamic, and the film’s overall heartwarming tone. The visual effects and performances, especially from Hugh Jackman and Dakota Goyo, were also praised.