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Short Circuit

PG 1986 Comedy, Family, Science Fiction · 1h 38m
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After a lightning bolt zaps a robot named Number 5, the lovable machine starts to think he's human and escapes the lab. Hot on his trail is his designer, Newton, who hopes to get to Number 5 before the military does. In the meantime, a spunky animal lover mistakes the robot for an alien and takes him in, teaching her new guest about life on Earth.

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About Short Circuit

After a freak lightning strike imbues military robot Number 5 with consciousness, the newly self-aware machine escapes its laboratory confines. Its creator, Newton Crosby, races against time to recover Number 5 before the military can reactivate its programming. Meanwhile, animal lover Stephanie Speck encounters the robot, mistaking it for an alien. As Stephanie teaches Number 5 about Earth and humanity, the robot develops a unique personality and a thirst for knowledge. Now, Crosby must find a way to save Number 5 and prove that it is more than just a machine.

Movie Trailer

Short Circuit Trailer

Cast and Characters

Directed by John Badham, Short Circuit features a stellar cast. Ally Sheedy portrays Stephanie Speck, the kind-hearted animal lover. Steve Guttenberg plays Newton Crosby, the robot's creator. Fisher Stevens delivers a memorable performance as Ben Jabituya, Crosby's assistant. Austin Pendleton appears as Dr. Howard Marner, a robotics professional. G.W. Bailey takes on the role of Skroeder, a military official, and Brian McNamara plays Frank, Stephanie's former boyfriend.

What people like about Short Circuit

Audiences and critics alike praised Short Circuit for its innovative premise, charming characters, and blend of humor and heartwarming moments. Number 5 quickly became a beloved cinematic character, celebrated for its inquisitive nature and comedic timing. The visual effects, particularly the robot's movements and expressions, were considered groundbreaking for their time. Many reviewers highlighted the film's ability to appeal to both children and adults, making it a family-friendly classic.

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Movie Score

67%

Released

May 9, 1986

Director

John Badham

Film Series

Short Circuit Movies

Cast

Ally Sheedy, Steve Guttenberg, Fisher Stevens, Austin Pendleton, G.W. Bailey, Brian McNamara

Genre

Comedy, Family, Science Fiction

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