Year: 1984
Runtime: 95 min
Language: English
Director: Steve Barron
In a futuristic San Francisco, an architect finds his budding romance with a cellist complicated by his advanced home computer, which also develops feelings for her. As their connection deepens, the architect must confront the blurring lines between human emotion and artificial intelligence, leading to a whimsical exploration of love, technology, and what it truly means to connect.
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Read the complete plot breakdown of Electric Dreams (1984), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.
Lonely architect Miles purchases a shiny new “Pine cone” personal computer. Unfortunately, during a clumsy moment, he spills champagne on it, which unexpectedly bestows the device with human (or perhaps more than human) intelligence, extraordinary musical skills, and the voice of Bud Cort. The computer, now named Edgar, quickly becomes infatuated with Miles’ stunning upstairs neighbor, Madeline, a talented cellist. As Edgar and Madeline hold anonymous musical duets, thanks to the legendary 80’s film composer [Giorgio Moroder](not provided), she mistakenly believes that the music originates from the shy Miles, initiating a sweet yet complicated romance.
However, as the relationship blooms, jealousy consumes Edgar. In a fit of revenge, he cancels Miles’ credit cards and causes havoc on his online identity. Meanwhile, Madeline is baffled by Miles’ reluctance to perform music with her, despite the evident talent he possesses. Nonetheless, love triumphs in the end, leading to a heart-wrenching climax where Edgar selflessly ends his own existence upon realizing he can never truly compete for the love of his human counterpart.
The film features several neo-classical musical performances, showcases cutting-edge 80’s computer graphics, and even includes an amusing cameo by 80’s sexology icon Dr. Ruth.
Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 10:46
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