Short Circuits

The story takes place in the late 1980s, a period of booming consumer tech and DIY entrepreneurship. Personal robotics and small startups are part of the urban economy, and shortcuts through deals and partnerships reflect the era's volatile business climate. The era's vibe combines optimism about technology with a willingness to bend rules for profit.

The action unfolds in a bustling American city with a visible split between glossy business districts and shadowy warehouse spaces. A derelict warehouse serves as the makeshift HQ for Ben and Fred, while a bank across the street and a nearby Chinese restaurant provide dramatic backdrops. The setting blends street-level entrepreneurship with corporate deals, highlighting the urban mix of commerce and crime.

🤖 Sentience

Johnny 5's awakening challenges the boundary between machine and person. The film questions what it means to be alive through his curiosity, emotions, and desire for autonomy. Relationships with humans reveal both trust and fear toward intelligent technology. The arc emphasizes ethical treatment and the value of agency for a sentient machine.

💼 Entrepreneurship

Ben's handmade business embodies a DIY startup spirit, turning a street venture into a full-fledged enterprise. The plot examines the vulnerabilities and opportunities of rapid growth, partner dynamics, and the pursuit of a big contract. Trust, ambition, and market pressures drive decisions that shape the future of his company and its robotic mascot.

🕵️ Betrayal

Oscar's manipulation exposes how financial incentives can corrupt alliances and motives. The pursuit of wealth collides with loyalty, forcing heroes to navigate deception and risk. The tension between personal ethics and opportunistic crime culminates in consequences that affect everyone involved.