*batteries not included

*batteries not included

Year: 1987

Runtime: 106 min

Language: English

Director: Matthew Robbins

Sci-FiFantasyComedyFamily

In this charming Sci-Fi comedy, Frank and Faye Riley, a loving elderly couple, find themselves fighting for their community's heart when a ruthless developer threatens to destroy their humble apartment building and diner. With the help of whimsical flying saucers, they rally their quirky tenants against the forces of gentrification in a battle that will warm your heart.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen *batteries not included yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – *batteries not included (1987)
Explore the full timeline and setting of *batteries not included (1987). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events of 'batteries not included' encapsulate contemporary urban life, reflecting the struggles faced by residents in a changing cityscape during the late 20th century. Themes of resilience and community are prominent as characters confront modern challenges posed by developers and shifting dynamics in their neighborhood.

Location

New York City's East Village

New York City's East Village is a vibrant neighborhood known for its rich cultural history and artistic communities. Once a hub for counterculture movements, it now features a mix of restaurants, bars, and eclectic shops, standing in stark contrast to the impending development of Lacey Plaza. The neighborhood embodies a unique blend of old-world charm and modern ambition, making it a significant backdrop for the residents fighting to stay in their homes.

🏙️ City 🏠 Home

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:07

Main Characters – *batteries not included (1987)
Meet the key characters of *batteries not included (1987), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Frank Riley (Hume Cronyn)

Frank Riley is a resilient and loving husband who fiercely protects his home amidst the encroaching threat of eviction. He balances caring for his wife, Faye, who suffers from dementia, with the pressures of defending their diner from destruction. Frank embodies deep-rooted devotion and a fighting spirit that resonates throughout the community.

👴 Elderly ❤️ Love 💪 Resilience

Faye Riley (Jessica Tandy)

Faye Riley is a warm-hearted and nurturing figure whose mild dementia adds a poignant layer to her character. As Frank's partner, she symbolizes the deep emotional ties that bind the residents to their home. Her whimsical interactions with the Fix-Its highlight themes of innocence and the importance of imagination in the face of reality.

👵 Dementia 💖 Caregiver 🌟 Dreamer

Mason Baylor (Dennis Boutsikaris)

Mason Baylor is a starving artist who captures the struggles and aspirations of the community. Torn between artistic integrity and burgeoning feelings for Marisa, he provides a voice for the younger generation trying to navigate love and ambition amidst societal upheaval. His journey reflects the intersections of creativity and survival.

🎨 Artist ❤️ Romance 🎭 Struggle

Marisa Esteval (Elizabeth Peña)

Marisa Esteval is a pregnant woman facing uncertainty about her future. As a single mother, she represents the challenges facing young women in urban environments. Her complex relationship with Mason intertwines themes of love, jealousy, and community support, highlighting maternal strength amidst vulnerability.

👩‍👧 Motherhood 💕 Love 🤰 Pregnancy

Harry Noble (Frank McRae)

Harry Noble is a retired boxer embodying strength and loyalty. His willingness to defend his neighbors makes him a vital protector in the community. His character provides both comic relief and moments of genuine tension, particularly in his interactions with Lacey's henchmen, showcasing the duality of toughness and compassion.

🥊 Boxer 🔥 Brave 😂 Humor

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:07

Major Themes – *batteries not included (1987)
Explore the central themes of *batteries not included (1987), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🏘️ Community

The theme of community is central to the narrative as the tenants of the East Village building come together to support each other against eviction. Their shared memories and collective resistance highlight the bond that forms among neighbors in the face of adversity. This theme is amplified by the mysterious Fix-Its, which symbolize hope and togetherness.

⚔️ Conflict

Conflict is portrayed through the struggle between the residents and the ruthless developer, Mr. Lacey. The physical and psychological battles they endure unveil deeper social themes like gentrification and the fight for one's home. The violence of Lacey’s henchmen against the tenants reflects a broader commentary on power dynamics in urban settings.

🛠️ Resilience

Resilience is embodied in the elderly couple, Frank and Faye, who refuse to leave their home despite overwhelming odds. Their determination, alongside the supportive antics of the Fix-Its, illustrates a profound message about the strength found in maintaining one's roots and fighting for a place to belong.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:07

Similar Movies to *batteries not included
Discover movies like *batteries not included that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.