This was probably the least noted Best Animated Feature nominee of the year, at least for the U.S. Going in, I knew little more than the what the poster presented. It hardly mattered, because I've never really hated an animated feature.
In a parallel world of anthropomorphic animals, a New York dog named Dog Varon (after the graphic novel writer, Sara Varon) buys a companion robot, who seems masculine but is never assigned a name to our knowledge. Despite some obstacles, they have a lot of fun together -- until the robot rusts to immobility at the beach. Dog can't move his friend with raw strength, and by the time he gets tools handy, the beach is closed for the next three seasons. Planning to try again later, Dog makes other efforts to combat loneliness, while the robot literally dreams of different futures for them both.
I came to wonder what year it was supposed to be. Apart from robots with advanced thoughts and emotions, the technology appears dated. I guessed an alternate '80s, and sure enough, Wikipedia specifies 1984-85. Curiously, we get a mix of real and fictitious brands on display.
Writing appears, but the few vocalizations are wordless except in song recordings. This might be chiefly to maximize international appeal or to concentrate on the joy of visual gags. You'd think I'd take out the earbuds at this point, but some of the music is enjoyable and even vaguely important to the plot. Maybe I was too engrossed to think about my ears.
Why use animals in a plot where humans would work fine? Well, they are pretty cute, and much of the humor stems from animal traits. In an ironic way, it may make the lack of dialog less weird. And I'm more inclined to forgive unreasonable conflicts between seemingly mute critters.
For once on this trip, I could appreciate a simple story. It has escapist trappings but a highly relatable poignancy. I recommend RD to anyone with a modicum of patience.
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