Pinocchio
Pinocchio is a fairy tale originally written in late 19th century Italy and then made into a Disney movie in the mid 20th century. In it, a wooden puppet is made by the lonely woodcarver, Geppetto. He then becomes animated by the Blue Fairy, and goes through adventures on his way to becoming a real boy. His nose grows when he tells lies, and he survives in the belly of the whale, Monstro.
The movie A.I. by Steven Spielberg updates the story, making the protagonist a robot, and explores some of its darker existential themes.
The Offspring video for "You're Gonna Go Far Kid" also appears to be inspired by Pinnochio.