Short Circuit

Starring: Steve Guttenberg, Ally Sheedy, Fisher Stevens, Austin Pendleton, Tim Blaney (voice)
Directed by: John Badham
Rating: PG
Genre: Comedy, Science Fiction
1986

Times Seen:
Tim: 4

Summary: Military robot Number 5 (voice of Tim Blaney) is struck by lightning, which fries his circuits and gives him a sense of consciousness. He escapes the military base, and runs from the soldiers, insisting he is alive.

Review:

Tim: I grew up with this movie. As a kid, I absolutely loved it. Short Circuit is one of the definitive movies of my childhood, and I have terrific memories of watching it as I grew up. Years later, I'm excited to say that the film still holds up as a wonderful film. Some of the technological issues can feel a bit dated, but even 20+ years after its original release, the issues it brings up (robot consciousness) is still relevant.

The film reeks of the 80s (not in a terrible way), by casting Steve Guttenberg and Ally Sheedy in the lead male and female roles. They are both quite good in their roles. I also liked seeing Fisher Stevens, although it's a little strange that he's playing an apparent Indian who's not from India (and Stevens is white, not Indian). The cast all give very good performances, and there are so many memorable characters.

Short Circuit is a lighthearted, fun sci-fi comedy. It is very, very appropriate for children (although it has a few moments of adult humor). Adults should like the movie as well, because there's some truly funny moments. Number 5 has some absolutely hilarious lines. I love the scenes with the Three Stooges, the robot battles, and so much more. The writing is quite good (if you look past a few cheesy dialogue lines), and there are some great quotes ("Hey laser-lips, your momma was a snowblower!").

This is one of the best family-oriented films of the 80s, and a movie that you need to see if you haven't already. It stands up to repeat viewings, and should truly entertain. I really, really love this movie.



Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 8



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Short Circuit 2