Remote Control
The movie follows Michael Rafter, a former war correspondent turned corporate security consultant, whose life is overturned when he receives a mysterious phone call from an unknown source.Intrigued by the caller’s intent, Rafter investigates and soon uncovers the threads of a global conspiracy, finding himself drawn into a fight for his life and pursued by the 212, a powerful shadow organization. Rafter soon discovers he has been targeted and framed as the notorious international assassin, Julian Irving. With his own identity erased, Rafter turns to the only person he can trust – his former lover, Tracy, who is also implicated in the conspiracy. On the run together, they must stay ahead of the 212, the CIA and a team of professional assassins, and unravel the mystery while trying to stay alive.
Insights
Plot Summary
A lonely teenager obsessed with alien encounters and sci-fi movies discovers a mysterious alien artifact that, when activated by his TV remote, allows him to control the minds of others. He uses this power for pranks and to get revenge on his bullies, but soon finds himself in over his head when the artifact attracts unwanted attention from a sinister alien organization.
Critical Reception
Remote Control is a low-budget cult film that gained a following for its campy humor and inventive, albeit crude, special effects. While not critically acclaimed upon release, it has since been appreciated by fans of 1980s sci-fi and horror for its unique premise and earnest execution.
What Reviewers Say
- Appreciated for its creative premise and nostalgic 80s sci-fi vibe.
- Praised for its amusingly over-the-top portrayal of alien technology and teen wish-fulfillment.
- Criticized for its dated special effects and occasionally weak acting.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's nostalgic charm and its status as a fun, albeit cheesy, B-movie from the late 80s. Many viewers recall it fondly for its unique concept and memorable moments, despite acknowledging its technical limitations.
Fun Fact
The film's director, David Winning, originally intended "Remote Control" to be a more serious sci-fi thriller, but budgetary constraints and the desire to inject humor led to its transformation into a campy cult classic.
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