In the 21st century, the greenhouse effect has melted portions of the polar icecaps, causing parts of Earth's coastal cities to become submerged underwater. To cope with this environmental tragedy, mankind develops artificial intelligence.

A.I. originated with Stanley Kubrick who worked on the project for 18 years. In March 2000, Spielberg announced that he would be writing and directing A.I. based on his conversations with Kubrick.

Haley Joel Osment plays a robotic child on an emotional journey to become real. He is aided in his endeavor by fellow robot Jude Law. Frances O'Connor and William Hurt also star.