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Real Genius
1985 106 min United States of America PG 6+
★7.0
Comedy, Romance, Science Fiction
Director: Martha Coolidge
Trailers
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EN
Description
When teenage geniuses Mitch Taylor and Chris Knight, working on an advanced laser project, learn that the military wants to use it as a weapon, they decide to thwart the plan.
Budget:
$8M
US Gross:
$12.95M
Worldwide:
$12.95M
Starring
Val Kilmer
Actor
Stacy Peralta
Actor
Daniel Ades
Actor
Awards
2 wins & 2 nominations total
Key opinion
Real Genius is regarded as a quintessential 80s teen comedy that balances standard college humor with a surprisingly intelligent scientific premise. While some critics find the plot thin or ultimately forgettable, it is widely praised for its charming performances and commitment to factual scientific authenticity.
| Acting | Val Kilmer delivers a standout performance, anchoring the film with his characteristic wit and unpretentious charm. | |
| Originality | The production demonstrates a surprising commitment to factual accuracy regarding laser technology and scientific operation. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay successfully avoids many of the common, cruder tropes found in typical mid-80s college comedies. | |
| Emotion | Critics are divided on the film's lasting impact, with some finding it a clever classic and others viewing it as a largely forgettable piece of entertainment. | |
| Humor | Opinions on the film's tone are split; some appreciate the lighthearted, non-obscene humor, while others find the reliance on college-style pranks to be unrealistic or juvenile. |