Youthful Dreams Supercharged by Tech

Read Time:5 Minute, 23 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Weird Science [Limited Edition]
–

Genre: Comedy, Romance, Sci-Fi
Year Released: 1985, 2023 Arrow Video 4K
Runtime: 1h 34m
Director(s): John Hughes
Writer(s): John Hughes, Al Feldstein, William M. Gaines
Cast: Anthony Michael Hall, Bill Paxton, Ilan Mitchell-Smith, Kelly LeBrock, Robert Downey Jr
Where To Watch: available August 22, 2023, pre-order here www.arrowvideo.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Step right up to the neon-drenched world of the 80s, where shoulder pads met chunky computers, and John Hughes was crafting memorable tales like SIXTEEN CANDLES, THE BREAKFAST CLUB, and more. This vibrant romp through teen anxieties combines wacky sci-fi fun with a resonant human touch.

Our leading men, Gary and Wyatt, portrayed with fervor by Anthony Michael Hall and Ilan Mitchell-Smith, are your classic high school misfits. Desperate to dodge the doldrums of their everyday lives, they turn to what was considered cutting-edge tech in those days. Using Wyatt's computer setup, which by today’s standards might seem almost ancient, the duo aspires to create their ideal woman. However, instead of a pixel-perfect companion, they end up with “Lisa.” Kelly LeBrock, with her charming presence, plays this character, effortlessly swinging between magic and mischief. But magic always comes with a price, and the duo soon find themselves in a hilarious whirlpool of troubles, not the least involving Wyatt's eccentric brother, Chet, a character Bill Paxton brings to life with zany enthusiasm.

What makes WEIRD SCIENCE a standout is not just the sorcery and the side-splitting laughs. It mirrors that evergreen quest for identity, belonging, and love – especially during those tender teenage years. It's a delightful snapshot of an era when the Commodore computer was the absolute pinnacle of tech coolness. And in its lighthearted way, the film jests at the technological naivety of that decade. This 4k restoration is an unmistakable charm for all of my 80s nostalgia; At the same time, the film hasn’t aged gracefully, but it still will hold a special place in the memories of people who grew up with it, especially those who told they looked like Anthony Michael Hall growing up (that would be me, thankfully not anymore.)

Yet, while the movie is brimming with character and retro appeal, first-time watchers might occasionally feel like they missed an inside joke. Its undeniable charisma is at its peak for those who are already in the loop of the storyline. Peeling back its layers, WEIRD SCIENCE isn't just about wild adventures fueled by digital wizardry. It’s about the realization that to belong genuinely, and one doesn't need a magic spell or technological marvels. The film occasionally struggles to balance its comedic moments with the raw, pulsating emotions of growing up.

A round of applause is due to the film's dynamic cast. Anthony Michael Hall is at his comedic best, reaffirming his place as a defining teen actor of the decade. Ilan Mitchell-Smith plays the perfect foil alongside him, resulting in several laugh-out-loud moments. Kelly LeBrock is both hilarious and hypnotic as the digital diva turned reality. Also, keep an eye out for a young Robert Downey Jr., who manages to steal the show even in a fleeting role.

WEIRD SCIENCE is a blend of youthful aspirations with a dash of fantastical sci-fi, a cocktail many films have since tried to emulate. While it might not be the crowning glory in Hughes' illustrious career, it's a vivid journey through dreams supercharged by the magic of technology. A sharper focus on its underlying themes could have made it even more impactful. Still, even in its present form, it is a fun, touching, and unmistakably 80s tribute to the joys and pains of adolescence. If you're in the mood for a dose of laughter, heart, and an excellent ol' 80s flashback, WEIRD SCIENCE has the formula just right!

Bonus Materials
– New restoration by Arrow Films from a 4K scan of the original negative
– 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible) of the original Theatrical Version of the film (94 mins), plus a seamlessly-branched Extended Version (97 mins) featuring two additional scenes
– Original lossless stereo audio, plus 5.1 DTS-HD MA surround option (theatrical version only)
– Optional English subtitles for people who are hard of hearing
– Edited-for-TV version of the film (SD only, 94 mins), plus comparison featurette highlighting the alternate dubs and edits
– Option to watch additional scenes from the Extended Version separately
– Casting ‘Weird Science,’ an interview with casting director Jackie Burch
– Dino The Greek, an interview with supporting actor John Kapelos
– Chet Happens, an interview with special makeup creator Craig Reardon
– Fantasy and Microchips, an interview with editor Chris Lebenzon
– Ira Newborn Makes The Score, an interview with the composer
– It’s Alive! Resurrecting Weird Science, an archive documentary featuring interviews with cast, crew, and admirers, including star Anthony Michael Hall
– Theatrical trailers, TV spots, and radio spots
– Image galleries
– Illustrated collectors’ booklet featuring writing on the film by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas and Amanda Reyes
– Double-sided fold-out poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tracie Ching
– Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tracie Ching

For more reviews, please visit – https://linktr.ee/Overlyhonestmoviereviews for more info.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of ARROW VIDEO, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #WGA #SAGAFTRAStrong #WGAStrong