Finch - Characters & Cast

His sole motivation is to ensure that his dog, Goodyear, will be taken care of after he dies from radiation poisoning. This selfless love drives him to create Jeff and undertake the perilous journey west.

Finch begins as a pragmatic, solitary survivor, his life dictated by routine and caution. His focus is purely on survival and the well-being of his dog. As he creates and travels with Jeff, he is forced to become a teacher and a father figure. This process reawakens his own humanity, prompting him to confront his past and his regrets. By the end, he transitions from a man merely trying to survive to one who has successfully created a legacy of love and care, finding peace in knowing his companion will be safe.

Initially, Jeff is motivated by his programmed directives, particularly the primary one: to care for Goodyear. As he learns and develops, his motivation shifts to a more genuine, emotional desire to protect his new family and fulfill Finch's last wishes.

Jeff starts as a literal newborn, with a vast database of knowledge but no practical experience or understanding of the world. His arc is a classic coming-of-age story, accelerated by the apocalyptic setting. He learns through trial and error, frustration, and Finch's teachings. He evolves from a clumsy, overly literal machine to a being capable of independent thought, empathy, and genuine affection, ultimately stepping into the role of protector that Finch created for him.

Goodyear's motivation is simple and pure: loyalty and love for his owner, Finch. He seeks comfort, safety, and companionship, which he eventually finds with Jeff.

Goodyear's arc is one of learning to trust. Having only known Finch as his companion and protector, he is initially fearful and distrustful of Jeff. Through the course of their journey, and as he witnesses Jeff's dedication and care (especially after Finch's passing), he comes to accept the robot as his new guardian and friend, signifying the successful transfer of Finch's legacy.