Made in 1987 Robocop is still one of the best action movies of its time. Sure, there are some special effect issues throughout the movie but they are easily glossed over by how good the rest of the movie is.
Robocop, released in 1987, is a science fiction action movie directed by Paul Verhoeven. It tells the story of a police officer named Alex Murphy, played by Peter Weller, who is brutally murdered in the line of duty and then resurrected as a cyborg known as Robocop. The film takes place in a dystopian version of Detroit, where crime is rampant, and corruption is commonplace. Robocop must navigate this dangerous world while trying to unravel the conspiracy that led to his demise.
One of the standout features of Robocop is its world-building. Verhoeven creates a vivid, dystopian future where everything is falling apart, and the rule of law has been abandoned. The city of Detroit is portrayed as a place where crime is rampant, and the police are powerless to stop it. The movie does an excellent job of showing how the city's decay has affected the lives of its residents, with scenes of poverty, homelessness, and despair interspersed throughout the film. The depiction of this world is both compelling and convincing, and it helps to make the story feel more real and immersive.
Another strength of Robocop is its action sequences. The film is filled with intense, visceral violence that is both thrilling and brutal. Verhoeven's direction keeps the action scenes fast-paced and exciting, and the use of practical effects and stunts gives them a visceral quality that is missing from many modern action movies. The film also does an excellent job of balancing the action with character development and plot progression. The action never feels gratuitous or out of place, and it always serves a purpose in moving the story forward.
The performances in Robocop are also noteworthy. Peter Weller gives a fantastic performance as the titular character, portraying both the human and robotic aspects of his character with equal skill. Weller's physicality is particularly impressive, as he is able to convey a sense of robotic movement and behavior while still conveying emotion and humanity. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Nancy Allen as Robocop's partner, Anne Lewis, and Ronny Cox as the corrupt executive, Dick Jones. Kurtwood Smith also gives a memorable performance as the sadistic villain, Clarence Boddicker.
One of the most interesting aspects of Robocop is its commentary on society and politics. The film is critical of both corporate greed and the privatization of public services, and it portrays a world where corporations hold immense power and influence over the government. The movie also touches on themes of identity, free will, and the nature of humanity, as Robocop grapples with his new cyborg form and tries to reconcile his human memories with his robotic programming. These themes give the movie a depth and complexity that is often lacking in action movies, and they elevate the film above simple popcorn entertainment.
Despite its many strengths, Robocop is not without its flaws. The film's pacing can be uneven at times, with some scenes feeling slow or drawn-out. The movie also suffers from some dated special effects, particularly in scenes where Robocop's suit is shown in close-up. However, these minor issues do not detract significantly from the overall quality of the film.
In conclusion, Robocop is a classic science fiction action movie that still holds up today. It is a masterclass in world-building, featuring a vivid and immersive depiction of a dystopian future. The movie's action sequences are thrilling and intense, and the performances from the cast are excellent. The film's commentary on society and politics is still relevant today, and its exploration of themes of identity and free will gives it a depth and complexity that is often missing from action movies. While it has some minor flaws, Robocop remains a must-see for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a thought-provoking, thrilling movie experience.
