Short Circuit
Performance & Direction: Short Circuit Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Short Circuit (1986) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.6/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Science Fiction.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Science Fiction is often anchored by its ensemble, and Short Circuit features a noteworthy lineup led by Ally Sheedy . Supported by the likes of Steve Guttenberg and Fisher Stevens , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Short Circuit
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1986, Short Circuit is a Science Fiction, Comedy, Family film directed by John Badham. The narrative explores futuristic concepts and technological possibilities while examining humanity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Ally Sheedy.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. 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. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Ally Sheedy's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Ending Explained: Short Circuit
Ending Breakdown: Directed by John Badham, Short Circuit concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to science fiction resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Ally Sheedy, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the science fiction themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Short Circuit reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Short Circuit?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Science Fiction films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Ally Sheedy or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Short Circuit
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $10.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $40.7M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Short Circuit Budget
The estimated production budget for Short Circuit is $10.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Short Circuit
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Where to Watch Short Circuit Online?
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YouTubeFandango At HomeShort Circuit Parents Guide & Age Rating
1986 AdvisoryWondering about Short Circuit age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Short Circuit is 98 minutes (1h 38m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.6/10, and global performance metrics, Short Circuit is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1986 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Short Circuit worth watching?
Short Circuit is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Science Fiction movies. It has a verified rating of 6.6/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Short Circuit parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Short Circuit identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Short Circuit?
The total duration of Short Circuit is 98 minutes, which is approximately 1h 38m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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