Films That Shook Me Up II: Robocop

I was 9 when Robocop relaeased. Walking past this very poster at my local cinema is one of my most vivid film related memories. My pick for best poster ever. 

Continuing the journey through films that profoundly impacted my younger self, we arrive at Paul Verhoeven's 1987 sci-fi classic, Robocop. Much like The Fog, which I discussed in my previous article (Films That Shook Me Up: The Fog), Robocop is another film I watched far too early in life by employing my trusty trick of feigning indifference to my parents' movie choices. And while The Fog haunted me with its spectral sailors, Robocop shook me to the core with its brutal violence and unsettlingly prophetic themes.

Technology vs Humanity

At its core, Robocop grapples with the age-old conflict between technology and humanity. The transformation of Officer Alex Murphy into Robocop is both a triumph and a tragedy. It showcases the marvel of technological advancement, yet it simultaneously strips Murphy of his human essence. As a child, I was captivated by the sheer coolness of Robocop's cybernetic suit and the heroic deeds he performed. However, as I grew older, I began to appreciate the film's deeper message about the loss of humanity in the face of technological dominance.

This theme has only grown more relevant with time. In today's world, where artificial intelligence and automation are rapidly advancing, Robocop serves as a poignant reminder of what it means to be human. It asks us to reflect on the ethical implications of merging man with machine and whether the cost of such progress is worth the potential loss of our humanity.

This scene. Oof

Justice and Revenge

Murphy's journey from a dedicated police officer to a vengeful cyborg raises complex questions about justice and revenge. The film does not shy away from depicting the brutal realities of crime and the often-corrupt systems designed to combat it. The scene that left an indelible mark on me as a child—and still makes me uneasy today—is when Murphy is savagely gunned down, culminating in the shocking moment when his hand is shot off. This scene, more than any other, encapsulates the film's raw portrayal of violence and its emotional impact.

While many fans often cite the "melting man" scene as the most unforgettable, for me, it's Murphy's incredulous expression of shock and pain that truly stands out. The visceral reaction captured in Peter Weller's performance is haunting and underscores the film's exploration of justice marred by personal vendetta. It’s a stark reminder of the thin line between upholding the law and succumbing to the desire for retribution.

In terms of 'ways to go', this isn't ideal

Ultra Violence

Verhoeven's use of ultra-violence in Robocop is not merely for shock value; it serves a purpose. The graphic brutality forces the audience to confront the consequences of a society desensitized to violence. As a young viewer, the film's violence was both thrilling and terrifying. It was unlike anything I had seen before, pushing the boundaries of what I thought was possible in cinema.

Yet, as an adult, I now see the film's violence through a different lens. It serves as a critique of the media's role in normalizing and sensationalizing violence. The over-the-top news segments interspersed throughout the film, which once provided comic relief, now feel eerily prescient. Today's media landscape, with its often sensationalist coverage, seems to have taken a page directly from Verhoeven's playbook. In many ways, Robocop predicted the future—a future we are now living in, where the line between fiction and reality is increasingly blurred.

Verhoven is a certified genius

The Christ Metaphor

One of the more subtle yet profound themes in Robocop is its Christ metaphor. Murphy's death and subsequent resurrection as Robocop mirror the story of Christ, adding a layer of spiritual depth to the narrative. This analogy is woven throughout the film, from Murphy's initial sacrifice to his eventual redemption, eventually even walking on water. As a child, this aspect went completely over my head. But with time and repeated viewings, I began to appreciate the film's exploration of sacrifice, resurrection, and salvation.

This religious undertone adds a layer of complexity to Robocop, elevating it beyond a mere action film. It challenges the audience to consider the moral and ethical implications of Murphy's transformation and the notion of redemption in a world dominated by corporate greed and corruption.

Personal Reflection

Robocop is more than just a film that shocked me as a child; it’s a cinematic experience that has evolved with me over the years. Initially, it was the visceral violence and the iconic robo-suit that captivated my young mind. But as I've grown, so too has my understanding of the film's deeper themes and its chilling relevance to our modern world.

Verhoeven's ability to blend societal critique with thrilling action and deep philosophical questions is nothing short of masterful. His foresight in predicting the dystopian elements of our present-day society is both impressive and unsettling. The film's cultural significance cannot be overstated—it serves as a cautionary tale and a call to reflect on the direction in which we are heading.

Conclusion

Robocop is an essential film that has left an indelible mark on me and continues to resonate with audiences today. Its exploration of technology's impact on humanity, the thin line between justice and revenge, the desensitization to violence, and its profound Christ metaphor make it a timeless classic.

In a world where the news often feels like one of Verhoeven's satirical segments, Robocop remains a powerful reminder of the importance of retaining our humanity amidst technological advancements. It challenges us to think critically about the future we are creating and the ethical implications of our actions.

So, if you're looking to revisit a film that offers more than just action-packed entertainment, I encourage you to watch Robocop with fresh eyes. Allow yourself to be shaken, to reflect, and to engage with its enduring message. After all, films that shake us up often have the power to change us for the better.

The Robocop trilogy Blu Ray is available HERE at a special price for a limited time. Well, 1 and 2, plus a fairly nice coaster for your table! Using the link will really help me keep on blogging (in the free world) at no extra cost to yourself.

The office is... completely dark. Just... just blackness. All the lights have failed. The... the power's gone off. So while you can, see the next film the shook me up HERE.