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The movie is really about Mitch finding his way in a high-pressure college situation. He endures Kent, the jerk that tortures him and who works in the same lab. Kent is not untalented, but not a genius like Chris or Mitch and resents the favoritism genius claims. Kent tries to get attention by sucking up to Prof. Hathaway (brilliantly played in all his corruption by William Atherton), but never gets what he is seeking.
As just one minor example of the riches in this movie is the scene when Mitch is going to a packed math class. Soon people start bringing small tape recorders to class and not attending. Mitch is one of the few actually listening to the prof. Finally, Mitch is the only one in the class, even the prof becomes a reel-to-reel tape player with a sign attached that says encourages the students to listen carefully. While changes in technology would make that scene impossible today, it is still wonderfully effective.
Mitch also meets Jordan, a girl who is so hyperactive she doesn't sleep, finds time to invent things as well as resurface the floor in her dorm room. Jordan is magnificently played by Michelle Myrink and is one of those characters you wish you knew in real life as a friend. Although, frankly, Jordan would be exhausting to know. But her intelligence, innocence and kindness would more than compensate for the energy you would have to expend keeping up with her.
The movie is populated with wonderful characters of all sorts. The plot is hung on a very 80s theme, but that's OK, the final scene draws it all together in spectacular and funny way.
A classic.
It is a delightful college romp with geeks aplenty, and the humor is a lot classier than Animal House, which is another good college flick. It is full of subtle and not so subtle satire on society, such as the botched saying ("like shooting ducks in a barrel") in the slick video boardroom presentation for the weapon concept, and the remark from one general after hearing about having a working weapon system by June - "Don't ask me, I haven't had a working weapon system since Korea."
I can't add anything about the Cal Tech trivia, but it did seem to me that the limo used for the weapon test looked an awful lot like JFK's ill-fated Dallas limo. Veiled commentary about the Military-Industrial Complex?
There is, of course, lots of geek/college humor, but nothing really gross. The sexual humor and references are pretty light, well handled, and fit in with the story. The humor covers the social commentary well, and the film makes its statements without preaching. It is a film I recommend to all students entering college. It is also one of those films that I watch regularly to boost my spirits and have a good time. It reminds one not to take onself too seriously. Highly recommended.
Missing geniuses found living in student's closets
Apples that spontaneously combust on the teacher's desk
These are but some of the classic moments from "Real Genius", a rare overlooked gem of 80's flicks. If you have not seen this movie, you are truly missing some of the best comic writing and acting college humor has to offer.
For the nostalgic children of the 80's, this is a must-have.
You can't go wrong with that. Now can you?
The movie centers on the controvertial symbiosis between the academia (a place were technological and scientific breakthroughs are made) and the military-government-industrial establishment that finances this "pure science". While the movie is cast in an 80's setting with the area of research being physics, the story seems to parallel the sixties and seventies, when the army and air force financed much of the research at what became the MIT AI lab -- research in robotics, vision, artificial intelligence, programming langauges -- with an abundance of military applications.
A great book to read either before or after the watching the movie is "Hackers" by Steven Levy. The parallels to this movie are astounding.
Everytime I watch this film I get distracted by the comedy of it all-like the lines "Compared to you most people have the IQ of a carrot. "We're different than most people, Mitch. Better." or "What do you want?!-(Chris:) World peace, but I don't think this is the time to discuss it." ....under all that jazz comes a deep rivalry between Chris Knight and Jerry Hathaway. Hathaway resents the party animal Chris has become, because the audience gets the feeling he's never had that kind of fun in his life, and doesn't know how to.
This film is hilarious, smoothly edited/directed, and so intelligent it's rediculous. Did I mention the soundtrack fits "Real Genius" like a glove?
Watch it and be inspired to appreciate life to its fullest-with humour and a little genius.
Rather than adding to the well-deserved praise given by other reviewers, lemme give you a bit of background. "Pacific Tech" is, of course, Caltech. Although it has no access from closets, there really is an "infinite storeroom" under the old dorms. Though it's unlikely someone could set up their own lab and hide down there, it's not altogether impossible.
The young hyperactive student who can't sleep and knits at night really exists. She was modelled after the wife of a co-worker at Data I/O corporation. She and her husband attended Caltech at the time "Real Genius" was made.
The crazy stuff (such as putting a car in someone's room) is not far-removed from the truth. Such pranks are comitted on Senior Ditch Day. They're usually even weirder than those shown in the film.
The performances are first rate - Val Kilmer is over the top, but is precisely what this movie requires. William Atherton is perfect as the egomaniacal professor and Gabriel Jarret as the prodigy struggling against societal prejudices.
This is for anyone with fantasies of being brilliant, fighting evil, righting wrongs, or who just love a quirky comedy.
The DVD is double sided, with widescreen and cropped versions of the movie. A few trailers of other films and scene index - pretty basic. No extra interviews or other goodies. I've been waiting for this DVD for some time, and I'm glad that I finally have it.
The DVD is double sided, with widescreen and cropped versions of the movie. A few trailers of other films and scene index - pretty basic. No extra interviews or other goodies. I've been waiting for this DVD for some time, and I'm glad that I finally have it.
I've loved this since it's first release, while I was in college. It motivated me, and gave me some one-liners that I still use.
I've loved this since it's first release, while I was in college. It motivated me, and gave me some one-liners that I still use.
It wasn't until it debuted on cable that people caught on to what a funny and engrossing film it was. Wiliam Atherton, fresh from his great heel performance as the EPA official in "Ghostbusters," plays Jerome Hathaway, a media-renowned physicist who collects prodigies like others collect baseball cards. The reason: to build a laser weapon he is developing in conjunction with a the CIA. The kids build the laser and he collects the monies, most of which comes under the table. To his consternation, the CIA has bumped up the delivery date for the weapon and he must get his students to work harder and faster.
His problem is that his lead prodigy, Chirs Knight (Val Kilmer) is having a crisis of mission in life. Once believing in nothing else than his studies and work, he has come to a change of mind. Worse yet for Dr. Hathaway, the young genius he has recently recruited, 15-year old Mitch Taylor (Gabe Jarrett) is rooming with Knight and is picking up his philosophy of life. Taylor learns that the reason for Knight's change of mind has come from Holyfeld, an ex-student who lives in the steam rooms below campus, to which the only entrance is through Chris and Mitch's closet...Yes, it's a thin plot, and yes, they do build Hathaway's pet project, but we get so caught up in the characters that we lose track of the plot because we're too busy laughing. No DVD collection can be complete without this gem of a comedy, a comedy that can be viewed multiple times -- the rule for good comedies.
It lacks the luster that comes with new releases, (ie. Animated DVD menu, bonuses... of ANY kind?!) In fact, the only special feature that comes with this DVD are Trailers.. but there's one for "Hook," and one for "Jumanji." Not even a "Real Genius" trailer.
Shame on you Columbia / Tristar. This disk Clearly looks like it was produced several years ago, only to be released now.
Other than that, It's grea to finally have this Gem on disk, and in widescreen. Now, If we could only coax them into releasing the soundtrack.
My favorite scenes:
Girl: "Are you here for the meeting?"
Chris: "What meeting?"
Girl: "I don't know."
Chris: "Oookaay..."
Mitch: "What are you doing?"
Chris: "Self-realization. I was reflecting on the immortal words of Socrates, who said, 'I drank what?' "
Chris: "Put that down! Don't you know that eating cheeseburgers can give you extremely large breasts?!?!" Those who have attended Caltech will especially enjoy the film, as it was filmed there and has a few in-jokes for ex-Beavers.
Video quality is much better than VHS. I've been waiting for this to come out for years now - its out, and I'm happy -...
For the three people out there who haven't seen the movie, a quick rundown is pretty simple. Stuffy boy genius goes to college where he meets slacker boy genius. Together, they work to save the world, each rubbing off some of their most notable personality trait on the other. Oh yeah, and Jordan's cute. If you haven't seen Real Genius, go do so. It's not that the tech travels well, because it doesn't. (The movie was made in 1985.) It was never the tech that made the movie the classic it is, anyway. The story itself is timeless, and is worth watching for just about anyone. Oh yeah, in case it wasn't clear from the description above (and I can see it wasn't), this is a comedy. Quite a goofy one. So go see it. It's only on TV about a dozen times a week, though it's better if you don't watch it on broadcast TV. And don't forget the popcorn.
I believe that some elements of the film are loosely modeled after Cal Tech and its students. I still remember reading an article years ago about the shenanigans that go on in Cal Tech's dorms. There is a widespread stereotype that brilliant people never have to study, and I appreciated that Real Genius showed that this belief is not true. I also liked the fact that this movie showed that geniuses can have fun too. If by some fluke, you have never seen this gem of a film, buy this DVD. This is one movie that you will definitely want in your collection to watch again and again. Because I no longer wear braces, I cannot say this with absolute certainty, but I think that Jesus would want you to own this DVD!
However, there better be plenty of extras on this baby. Like Kevin Smith's films, this is the kind of cult film that has slavish, technologically sophisticated devotees that 100% deserve a director/cast commentary, outtakes and a where are they now?-style documentary! If they can do it for M*A*S*H, they can do it for Real Genius. Regardless, I kind of have to buy it, because I junked my VHS deck a long time ago, unable to put up with the [bad] picture.
FINALLY, on DVD!!!
"Real Genius" is a simple story really. It's about a 15-year-old whiz named Mitch who goes off to this technology school, where's he's forced to fit in with all of the other brainiacs who spend most of their time simply being smart. While there, he meets up with fellow genius Chris Knight, played with full gusto by Val Kilmer. Chris and Mitch are hand-picked by their professor and head genius, Jerry Hathaway, to lead a team of students that will develop a laser. Seemingly harmless, the team later learns that Hathaway has his own agenda for the laser (actually, the military's agenda), and they attempt to spoil the plot as only really smart kids can. Mitch and Chris' on-screen chemistry works, simply because as Chris puts it, "I was just like you." Kilmer's Chris Knight is the rebel of the group, scheming against the brown-nosing Kent and causing Hathaway's major headaches throughout the film. Kilmer's facial expressions are some of the best of the decade, and he's got some classic lines to boot. It's too bad Kilmer went on to things like "The Saint". His best work is in "Real Genius". Consider this: When Hathaway tells him he needs to be "seeing more of him at the lab," Kilmer replies, "Fine. I'll gain weight." Oh yeah, comedy baby. So if you haven't seen "Real Genius" yet, I urge you to rent the DVD when it arrives. And make sure you're eating popcorn.
This is a definite pick for smart teenagers, but I recommend it for adults as well.
What kills me is this movie couldn't get made today, for so many reasons: the cast isn't sexy enough (except for Kilmer), the subject matter not dumb enough (even though there are silly moments galore), and it's not written to glorify an untalented star. If there was ever a movie that deserved to come out on DVD, this is it. A classic.
PLEASE PUT IT ON DVD![....]
This movie is exactly what the 80s was about. Val Kilmer, Gabe Jarrett, and others are hilarious. Its cheesy but still retains its respect. Oddball humor and just plain fun. This movie has some of the best comedy lines. Just watch it and find out. We all know what actor from this movie has had the most successful career but did you know that Gabe Jarrett "Mitch" has a brief part in Apollo 13. Boy was he buff in this! He plays one of the guys in the command center, just look for him. You won't miss him. His body has bulked up with muscle but his face is remarkably unchanged. I think the other reviews speak for themselves. I would recommend all that love this movie write Sony. Columbia-TriStar own the rights to the film. If enough people bombard them, maybe they will listen and put this gem out on DVD.
"What about that time I found you naked with that bowl of jello??"
Everybody wants to rule the world! Everytime I hear the song I recall this movie. There is some message delivered here, through a group of exceedingly good actors, which is a little hard to grasp, but is in a weird way, an exceedingly strong 'feel good' film. Well written, well acted. Obviously dated and not Oscar material, but charming and endearing. Store this one away as a milestone in your memories.
This movie was beyond my expectations and I seriously don't understand why more people don't know about it! The script is SO great and SO hillarious! I love Val Kilmer's character, he's so sarcastically funny, and did an excellent job portraying this wacky college student. This flick is for audiences who can catch the quick, silly phrases, that might go right over your head if you're not paying attention (or, to put it lightly, not that brilliant). It is definitely an 80's film, with the big hair, funny clothes, and too much makeup (even on the guys, unfortunately). But so worth watching and buying! I highly recommend it for Val fans too, he was and always will be a hottie!
Keep your eyes (and ears) on Val Kilmer's comments throughout the movie, you'll miss some VERY clever and well-timed zingers if you don't. This is a must own even if it is on 20th century technology! :) read: RELEASE THIS ON DVD!!!!! PLEASE! For a college movie about smart kids having fun in smart ways, check this out the next time you're at the video store.
For those of you out there in academia, and for those of you who aren't as well, I recommend this film highly! Now, let's go get a burger!
I wish they would release this with deleted scenes, montage scenes with instrumental music restored with original dialog, full aspect ratio, separate soundtrack and incidental music, on DVD. The incidental music and every pop song used in the soundtrack was perfect. Aside from the excessive use of makeup, the occasional grammatical slip by an actor, and other minor gaffes this is a near perfect movie. There is a quality to this movie that certainly says, "80s"--the movie-in-a-movie at the beginning which used models in space, to the soundtrack, clothing, cars, thematics, etc.--but it is still enduring. I wish Martha Coolidge would oversee the transfer of a print to DVD. She is a great director and this stellar example of her work should not go out of print!
Easy. The dialog is brilliant and the set-piece scenes are exquisite. The fact that they are done in the service of a what turns out to be a ridiculous plot is besides the point. Every character is clearly defined, and behaves consistently within their own world view. The fact that the world view is that of 19-year-old science geniuses sequestered together in a shrine to tech-geekdom makes it fun. While much critical approval was rightly directed to Val Kilmer for his role as Chris Knight, the worldly-wise senior who's learned that playing is as important as work, the film's bright star is really Michelle Meyrink's Jordan. She is the only woman in the dorm, and is 19 years old, hyperkenetic, brilliant, and sleepless. I love Jordan, and you will too. The other actors are equally impressive. William Atherton plays another of the smarmy villians he does so well, and Deborah Foreman and Patti D'Arbanville both get small but juicy parts ("can you hammer a 6-inch spike through a board ..."). Martha Coolidge directed this after her success with "Valley Girl," and she does well. It's kind of a fluffy comedy and Coolidge moves things right along. Ponderous direction would have killed it. (If you watch this and "Valley Girl" you'll see Deborah Foreman and Michelle Meyrink in both.) I seem to have failed trying to describe this film. Trust me. Go ahead and buy or rent it. You'll like it too. (The movie has almost as many quotable lines as "Blazing Saddles", but one of my favorites is a quiet scene early in the film. Young Mitch is looking for a reception on the Pacific Tech campus and says to a woman walking by, "I'm looking for the president's freshman tea." She answers, "I'm so glad we have one then" and walks off without telling him where it is. I mean, hey, he didn't actually *ask* for directions, did he?)
41 Real Genius
I am of the 60's generation, and this one just fits right in. Val Kilmer young but very likeable is great as the wise one. I have been waiting for this one to come out on DVD, I own the VHS version also. Have been a fan even with Top Secret, but this one is my favorite. The pranks they pull at colleges has not changed in years, and the reality of our government and how things are discovered are still true today. Great easy watching and love for popcorn.....
42 Need a moral boost during finals?
Awesome, funny movie. Through the years I have found myself going back to it when I needed a moral boost during finals. After watching it, I was all pumped up to hit the books.
43 REAL GENIUS IS A REAL TREAT!
Most definatly a 5-star film. The quality of this DVD and my satisfaction easily warrant such high praise; A wonderful DVD to add to your collection of favorites. I just purchased this movie from Amazon.com and couldn't be more satisfied. Great '80s comedy staring young Val Kilmer as a brilliant student and mentor. If you were an '80s graduate, you will undoubtedly enjoy this film. Superior quality coupled with timely shipment by Amazon made it most enjoyable. Highly recommend for anyone who loved Weird Science, Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, & St. Elmo's Fire.
44 Underrated 80's Treasure
Real Genius is in my top 5 for best 80's movies. Val Kilmer gives a fantastic performance in this and I just can't understand why his career didn't fare better after this and Top Gun. The characters are all very quirky and there is a lot of one liners and subtle humor. The soundtrack is one of the best I've ever heard for an 80's movie, it helps make the film. The video on the DVD is finally in widescreen for the first time on home video, and it looks quite good. The colors are strong and though the sharpness is a bit lacking, the detail is still good. The sound is a disappointment though since a 5.1 mix could have made this movie sound more modern. For some reason, the 2.0 Surround mix has very low levels, and you have to turn up your receiver pretty high to get it to normal volume. It's also a shame there's no extras worth noting on this disc as it really could have used some. If you want to see Val Kilmer give one of his best performances to date, check this movie out.
45 Better than the VHS version
This is great for those of us trying to get rid of those last few movies that are still only out on VHS.. but for people looking for "extra features" that make DVD so nice, this disc falls flat. It only offers scene selection, subtitle and language selection, and then some trailers for *other* movies - not the movie trailers for Real Genius. No commentary track, no deleted scenes, no alternate takes, etc. Just a straight re-cut to DVD, with a pan-and-scan version on one side of the disc and letterbox on the other.
46 Finally the DVD has come...
Just got the DVD today and watched it. Love this movie as always, as everyone else commented. The picture transfer is pretty darn good, not like I am viewing it on an HDTV or anything but for an old movie it looks nice. Obviously it doesn't have 5.1 sound or anything. Also no special features, just the movie. Even though the DVD is light on extras the movie itself still warrants the 5 stars.
47 The Best Movie ever Made!!!!!
Real Genius is by far the best movie ever made!! All of my friends had never heard of it before I told them about it which is hard to believe because it's so great!! It's definitley an 80's movie which makes it awesome!!! Everyone need to get it on DVD!!! I can't wait to buy it!!!
48 A Comedy you can enjoy more then once
Classic, yet an underated 80's teen movie. Real Genius takes place in college rather then high school and has a very different plot then the other teen movies of it's time. The kids are geniuses working on a lab project for their professor that they later find out is really a secret weapon for the military. They get together to plot revenge for being used. Very funny and just an all-around good time. I would give it 3 stars but, because of Val Kilmer's whitty and strange character, Chris Knight, I gave it 4. It is something to be enjoyed over and over.
49 Great Comedy
A very underrated film. Val Kilmer's performance was fantastic. His sarcasm rivaled that of Fletch, and in some ways surpassed it. Great casting and story line about a group of college kids whose project(s) are being manipulated by their professor into items of war.
This movie has everything from laser-guided weapons to a guy living in a closet. Complete with unlimited sarcasm. Highly recommend, even for an 80's movie.
50 The #1 Geek Movie of All Time
Not only is this a movie that will leave you with a sore stomach because you'll be laughing so hard, for so long, it's got a solid plot that's goofy, but not over the top. No gross out humor, and the zany stunts are thought out and explained to the viewer enough that they seem believable. These characters don't just use their charming personalities, either! *They actually act!* If you want to see a comedy where you can enjoy the technical points of filming and acting (if you can ever stop laughing, that is) this is one to buy. Renting is nice, but trust me, you'll want to watch it again.
51 For geeks of every generation.
I think that it's a fairly safe assesment that every geek on the planet has seen Real Genius at least once, if not dozens of times. This is one of the all-time cult classes for anyone who's ever felt exiled for being brainier than their peers. Indeed, the role of Chris Knight may be Val Kilmer's defining role for thousands of geeks all over the world.
52 ROFL
This is one of those comedies like Airplane, Blazing Saddles, Naked Gun, Hot Shots, etc. that you need to at least see, but really should buy and add to your video library. I was happy to see this and the Val Kilmer comedies "Top Secret" and "Willow" come out on DVD.
53 This Gem of a Film is a must-have on DVD!!!
In deference to Kent, I will keep this review simple. When I first got my DVD Player several years ago, one of the movies on the top of my want list was Real Genius. I couldn't understand why the movie studios were releasing so many mediocre films from their libraries onto DVD when great movies like this one were still not out. I even wrote to the studio suggesting that they release it, but they responded that they had no immediate plans to do so. Now, years later, it has finally happened. Real Genius is coming out onto DVD. Oh happy day! I am elated at the prospect of seeing this comedic masterpiece in what I hope will be a fully restored form.
54 There better be lots of extras
I have been waiting for this DVD forever! ... praise the wit and irreverence of this film. Ask anyone smart who was born between 1965 and 1973 about this film and you will get one-liners thrown back at you immediately.
55 Classic
Like others have said, this movie is probably one of the funniest movies a lot of people haven't seen, or at least don't remember seeing. I've still got the ol' VHS version that i break out every once in a while. Filled with great one-liners, this movie is a classic. I break out with lines or scenes from this movie all the time (to the dismay of some, no doubt). Although i think the young people enjoy it when i, "get down verbally." So many great lines, it takes great restraint not to start going through them all. I've been waiting for the DVD release for a long time. And remember, ice is what happens to water when it gets too cold.
56 "Hi Laslo; Want a Hamburger?"
This is one of my all time favorite movies. Kilmer is great - and if you know where I can get a great pair of bunny slippers like the ones he's wearing toward the end of the movie, let me know. William Atherton does a spectacular job playing the pretentious Jerry Hathaway (reflective of his roles in Ghostbusters and Die Hard).
This movie gets an A+ just for its witty brand of dialogue, which I still find myself quoting. Good special effects, very creative story line, an excellent soundtrack, and a very talented cast. Too bad I haven't seen most of them in anything else.
57 One of the Most Underrated Comedies of All Time
"Real Genius", along with Amy Heckerling's brilliant "Johnny Dangerously", is one of those comedies that never seemed to grasp the audience of other famous '80s flicks like "Caddyshack" or "Back to School". Well, now that it's on DVD, it's a perfect time to see what you've been missing.
58 quirky, funny movie about smart kids
This is a "teen movie" in that it follows the formula fairly closely, but the details are delightfully different. For one thing, it's about smart kids that actually act like smart kids (I can't think of another such movie offhand). For another, it's populated with characters that are distinct and memorable (I'm especially fond of the hyperactive girl). And finally, try to think of another movie where a character says "radiatively coupled to the ground state" and means it...
59 Get on the ball with the DVD already!
This is my favorite movie, hands down. No other comedy comes close. There would not be a 'Flirting With Disaster', an 'Office Space', a 'Something about Mary', if it weren't for the excellent script by Neal Israel and Pat Proft and Martha Coolidge's breezy direction and a great ensemble cast, led by Val Kilmer, (apparently the last time he ever had any fun on a film set).
60 My Favorite!
Real Genius is my favorite movie. Has been since I first caught a glimpse of it on cable back in the 80's. I have watched this movie numerous times and always love it. There is something about the atmosphere this movie has that colored my vision of what it would be like to live in a dorm in college. I was searching for a DVD version of this movie and found that it is not in production yet. I would highly suggest for a DVD version that the original musical score be presented as a separate element on disk -- seeing that I have not been able to find the soundtrack elsewhere. I would like to see deleted scenes, a widescreen version and interviews with the actors and director. To me this is an inspirational movie and I would hope the DVD version would go all out with the extras.
61 GENIOUSLY FUNNY!!!!
If you are a child of the 80's and enjoy movies that don't take themselves seriously, then this movie will make you laugh and forget your millenium worries! The over the top performances by many of the cast members are just what is needed to make this movie entertaining and unpretencious!
The charismatic Val Kilmer leads a pack of young but unworldly brains through mishaps, blunders and evil government plots! A MUST SEE !!!!! Hopefully it will be available on DVD very soon!!!
62 Just plain fun
This video is simply put, F-U-N.
Val Kilmer overdoes his comedy routine a bit, but that's what makes this so fun. A man in the closet, a laser, "hotter than the sun" and old-school school pranks.
63 Real Genius- The best movie ever made!
Real Genius is without a doubt the best movie ever made. Its comedic humor mixed with excellent plot personifies it as a movie that will stand the test of time.
64 An 80s Movie That Just Begs To Be Watched Over and Over
I am a huge movie buff. Growing up in the 80s has been a highlight of my life. I am so glad to have got to see such fine pieces of cinema such as this. I am only 25 but this has to be my favorite film of all time.
65 a movie I'd stand in line for
I my opinion Real Genius is one the best comedies of all time, probably my favorite movie made in the 80's. I own it on VHS and will probably have to buy another copy soon because I'm wearing it out, the sticker has already come off at least once. I'm not even a big movie buff and I rarely go out and buy a DVD the first day it is released, but this one I'd stand in line for.
66 I WAS HOT AND HUNGRY!
Oh man what a great movie.This is THE teen movie of the 80's.Val kilmer is truly on top of his game.The whole cast is great.After all these years it's still one of my favorite movies of all time.You only need to see it once to love it,and you don't have to be smart or be a nerd.
67 It took a real genius to make this movie
There is not a wasted statement or a wasted scene in the whole movie. My favorite two scenes are:
Jordan: "Are you peeing?"
Mitch: "Yeah."
Jordan: "Oh. I never sleep, I don't know why. I had a roommate, and I drove her nuts, I mean really nuts, they had to take her away in an ambulance and everything. But she's OK now but she had to transfer to an easier school, but I don't know if that had anything to do with being my fault. But listen, if you ever need to talk or you need help studying just let me know 'cause I'm just a couple doors down from you guys, and I never sleep, OK?"
Mitch: "Thanks. I will."
Jordan: "Are you done?"
Mitch: "I can't start."
Jordan: "Because I'm here?"
Mitch: "I think so."
Jordan: "Wierd. Well, I have to go."
Room Mitch: "Me too."
AND
Chris: "Was it a dream where you see yourself standing in sort of Sun God robes, on a pyramid, with a thousand naked women screaming and throwing little pickles at you?"
Mitch: "No."
Chris: "Why am I the only person that has that dream?"
After this movie everybody moved on to do more serious work.
Michelle Meyrink as Jordan Cochran goes on to be April Flowers in Nice Girls Don't Explode (1987) [only made nine movies]
Deborah Foreman as Susan Decker goes on to be Mary in Lobster Man from Mars (1989) [see my review]
Val Kilmer as Chris Knight earlier played Nick Rivers in Top Secret! (1984) [See my review]
68 Great Quotable Movie
Real Genius is one of my all time favorite movies. In fact I wish they had it on DVD because I am wearing out the Video Cassette that I have for it... Watch it, over and over. You will love it!
69 Great movie
Great movie, lots of fun. I've always loved it. Where's the DVD?!?!?
70 Hilarious! Put it on DVD!!
There are tons of great lines in this movie. It's just FUN!
I so want to find this movie on DVD!!
71 what more could you want?
Lasers, a government conspiracy, an indoor beach party, a crazy guy who lives in the closet, fake ids, hilariously clever pranks, an evil professor, wacky inventions, popcorn... what more could you want in a comedy film?
Seriously, this movie is a genuine classic of 1980s teen comedy, enough so that I impulse-bought it on the basis of a very dim memory of having watched it at a party once, long ago. I have never once come close to regretting the purchase.
Underappreciated and generally regarded as a cult classic among brainy sorts, this movie is the story of a bunch of college geniuses who, upon discovering that their professor intends to turn their physics project over to the military to be used for EVIL, plot hilarious revenge. If you're looking for intelligent satire, look elsewhere, but if you want college-film laughs, impeccably-delivered one-liners, and a very, very funny Val Kilmer (seriously, I had no idea he was capable of being so incredibly funny) in the days before he became a big star, look no further.
I've always wanted to bring the tape in to my high school physics teacher and ask him if any of the science holds up.
72 Unexplainably good
For those who have spent any time in college, or even those who have spent any time in the 80's, this film is a truly rewarding view.
73 One of the Top Five 80s Movies!
This movie is an underappreciated classic. I showed it to my mom the other day and she loved it and had never heard of it. Val Kilmer is cute and sassy and hilarious. It's a clever, silly, fun movie with a bit of heart. A great 80s movie, not one to miss!
74 multifaceted comedic drama
A true classic this by far is a must see a accurate depiction of a 1980's film the acting done by Val Kilmer is truly remarkable his portrayal was right on target trust me you will like this film . Chris Paris Esq.
75 When is this coming out on DVD!!! It Rocks!!
This is a great 80's flick. Val Kilmer was wonderful! Great movie. It is a must see for anyone....especially those who like popcorn. :)
76 Great Music!
Bought this video for the music. Searched everywhere for the soundtrack but unable to locate one.
77 Wonderful, wonderful 80's Comedy!!!
I had to rent this movie because, well, I have this undeniable obsession with Val Kilmer.
78 What A Great Little Movie!
This movie is, by far, the best "college-kid" movie out there! I don't think that anyone is drunk, high, or inebriated in any fashion which is a breath of fresh air! It's funny without resorting to the stereotypical college student (which I NEVER identified with).
79 Now, if we can just keep it from exploding!!!
A most enjoyable film on several levels. As an adolescent film, a coming of age (as both a person AND a scientist) movie, or just an entertaining comedy, REAL GENIUS delivers! I first saw it in 1987 while in grad school, and routinely watch it (and listen to Tears for Fears' "Everybody wants to rule the world", the film's closing theme) at the end of each academic year. The soundtrack also showcased what would become several innovative (and popular) forms of music, and launched several careers.
80 Despite all the makeup
Great acting, excellent cinematography, punchy script (Pat Proft, Neal Israel, et al.). Wonderful cameo by Severn Darden. Great acting by a young cast, many of whom were only seen in movies 2-3 years before and after REAL GENIUS. Those who remained in the spotlight: Val Kilmer (of course), Jon Gries, William Atherton.
81 Smart Comedy
Of all comedic movies I have ever seen, few have been as well written, well acted or as underrated as Real Genius. There are so many great lines that you could sit around and quote them back and forth, assuming you've seen it a couple times and this is the type of movie you can see over and over again. It relies on wit and on some levels, some drama. There is an underlying story in this movie about a young teen genius (Mitch) trying to fit in where you think he would fit in with no problem, a school for gifted young scientists. But due to his young age and sheltered life, he is ridiculed from the moment he steps through the door. Val Kilmer plays Chris, the star Senior student who relates to the kid because he sees Mitch as himself when he was younger. This is Val Kilmer's best role, before he became so particular about his work. His character seems to genuinely care for Mitch. It's as if he's determined to save one soul from the think tank of their head instructor who is using his students to resolve a power problem on a laser project. College pranks are still abound but the hi-jinks that go on are imginitive, as you would expect from highly intelligent students. The script is smart, funny, quick witted and clear. You will love this movie, trust me. Buy it!
82 Real Genius a cult classic
This is my all time favorite movie. I lost count of how many times I've seen it. This movie makes you forget about what's on your mind. It is a cult classic. The lines are unforgetable. Not owning this movie, isn't exceptable. I just hope they bring it out on DVD, real soon.
83 Captures The Essence of College Life
"Real Genius" is a gem among 80s movies and college films. Filled with all the music, intrigue, and uniqueness of the 80s, "Real Genius" is a great 'remember when' film to watch for those of us who grew up in that crazy decade. Beyond that, "Real Genius" is a great portrayal of college life. Take your more recent, contemporary 'school' films - practically all they revolve around is teenagers trying to have sex or going out with the most attractive/popular person in school (with the ultimate objective of having sex with them). "Real Genuis" has an original storyline that doesn't link to a quest for popularity or sex drive. Anyone who's ever gone to college will connect with this film, as it has all the earmarks of undergraduate education - from final exam panic attacks to heartless professors who assign impossible projects. All in all, this is a great film...I just wish it'd be released on DVD!
84 This is the best college movie!!!
I love this movie!! I dont remember when i first saw it, but i watched it all the time in college (around 1996). My roomate at the time had a huge crush on val kilmer, so she was hooked too. This was our hang out and procrastinate movie!!!
85 Even When You Know What's Wrong, You're Still Laughing
This isn't the greatest movie to come down the pike. But it's so cheerfully irreverent, it doesn't matter. Sample: Val Kilmer walks in with a balloon-animal around his head. "Why do you have that on your head?" "Because if I wear it anywhere else, it chafes." Expert performances almost carry a script that limps at the end. Check it out some night when you've had a bad day; it's a spirit lifter.
86 Great College Comedy
Mitch Taylor (Gabriel Jarret) is plagued with being a genius and enters a prestigious college that is geared toward his individualized talents. He meets a wacko older student, Chris Knight (Val Kilmer) who is playing on-high, not taking his own genius-nature too seriously. But, Professor Jerry Hathaway (William Atherton) expects results on a class project involving a lazar. This story is enjoyable in so many avenues. You see Knowledge and Ethics weighed, the hardships of putting a child in an adult environment, and so much more that is masked in a wonderful COMEDY!
87 Excellent movie until the end
This movie is a classic. It's wonderful. Val Kilmer's wise-ass lines are incredibly funny and makes the whole movie worth while. The one problem - at the very end, when the geniuses of this thinly-disguised Cal Tech decide to do something wacky and zany to get back at their professor, it is impossible to forget that this movie was made in the '80s, with schemes and humor straight out of Police Academy or Revenge of the Nerds. i hate the ending - it's so damn silly, moving from the mostly-realistic humor of the movie's initial dialog to the silly escapades at the end. But despite the dumb ending, the movie is wonderful, and i wish i could find this on DVD (any day now, right?)
88 just read the stinking review about Real Genius
It is a hilarious comedy.A genius highschool sophmore gets a scholarship to a genius college.There he meets his roomate Chris Knight(Val Kilmer).Chris was one of the top 8 smartest people in the world.He doesnt do the lab work for the Prof. That wants Chris and his roomate Mitch to make alaserbeam that can shoot to any planet, because he's to busy making things so he can avoid responsibilities and play all the time.Finally Chris starts working,and he makes the laser beam.The Prof.takes it for his awful purposes so Chris and Mitch with nerdy peoples help have to stop the laser beam.
89 How does it feel to be frozen?
The three most important things in film making are script, script and script. If everything else is perfect, a bad script can still sink the best-made film, and a great script can overcome indifferent execution. How then do you explain "Real Genius", a film that gives us a plot that is, charitably, predictable, with enough gaps, discontinuities and irredeemably unlikely events to give "straining credulity" a new meaning?
90 How funny can one character get?
This early effort by Val Kilmer accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do: amuse teenagers and other young adults with its wit, slapstick, and anti-authoritative message. What saves this movie from getting lost in John Hughes'ville is its intelligent, dry, sarcastic sense of humor. There are more great one-liners in this flick than "Sixteen Candles" and "Weird Science" put together. ("...the immortal words of Socrates who said, 'I drank what?'") A great movie.
Take an astronaut to launch.
Q: How many Californians does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Five. One to screw in the light bulb and four to share the
experience. (Actually, Californians don't screw in
light bulbs, they screw in hot tubs.)
Q: How many Oregonians does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Three. One to screw in the light bulb and two to fend off all
those Californians trying to share the experience.