Real Genius

Real Genius

Year: 1985

Runtime: 108 min

Language: English

Director: Martha Coolidge

Sci-FiComedyRomance

In this offbeat sci-fi comedy, freshman genius Mitch Taylor is thrust into an unlikely alliance with charismatic senior Chris Knight, sparking a fusion of brains and wit. As their friendship ignites, they revolutionize the laser project, only to discover that their creation might be hijacked by the government for nefarious purposes, forcing them to re-examine their values and the true cost of innovation.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Real Genius 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 – Real Genius (1985)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Real Genius (1985). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film is set in a contemporary era characterized by the height of technological advancements in the 1980s, particularly in laser technology and military applications. During this time, there was a growing interest in the practical uses of scientific innovations and their implications for both national security and personal ethics.

Location

Pacific Technical University, Air Force Base

Pacific Technical University serves as the primary setting for the film, known for its advanced scientific programs and innovative research. The Air Force Base is significant for hosting military technology, becoming a pivotal location for the film's climax as the characters navigate challenges related to their aerospace project.

🏫 University ✈️ Military

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:54

Main Characters – Real Genius (1985)
Meet the key characters of Real Genius (1985), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Mitch Taylor

Mitch is a teenage prodigy in laser physics, whose exceptional skills lead him to the forefront of a groundbreaking project. He grapples with the expectations placed upon him while navigating the complexities of young love and friendship.

🧠 Genius 💞 Romantic 🎓 Student

Chris Knight

Chris is a charismatic yet laid-back student who initially appears to lack ambition. However, through his friendship with Mitch, he confronts his own challenges and rediscovers his passion for physics and personal goals.

🎭 Slacker 🌟 Mentor 🤝 Friend

Professor Jerry Hathaway

Professor Hathaway is a complex character who hides a military agenda behind academic pursuits. His actions reveal a duality between nurturing talent and enforcing strict controls over his students, ultimately creating tension within the story.

🧑‍🏫 Authority 💼 Professional 🎓 Educator

Jordan Cochran

Jordan is an energetic student who grapples with insomnia, providing an emotional counterpoint to Mitch’s character. Her relationship with Mitch adds a romantic layer to the narrative, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections.

❤️ Love Interest 🤔 Thoughtful 🌙 Insomniac

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:54

Major Themes – Real Genius (1985)
Explore the central themes of Real Genius (1985), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

👨‍🎓 Education

Education plays a crucial role in the film as students balance their academic commitments with personal ambitions. The pressures of schooling reveal the burdens faced by young innovators, highlighting the dichotomy between academic excellence and personal wellbeing.

💔 Friendship

The theme of friendship is central to the narrative as the characters support one another through challenges. Mitch and Chris’s bond showcases how camaraderie can motivate individuals in times of struggle while emphasizing the importance of collaboration amidst competition.

🎉 Rebellion

Rebellion against authority figures is evident as the main characters devise inventive plans to challenge their professor. Their antics reflect a youthful desire to push boundaries, questioning the ethical use of their scientific talents against the backdrop of military objectives.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:54

Similar Movies to Real Genius
Discover movies like Real Genius 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.