The Veldt
The Veldt

Movie spotlight

The Veldt

1987
Movie
81 min
Russian

Adaptation of three short stories by Ray Bradbury. An atmosphere of hostility forms inside an unnamed city, and the citizens are unsettled by the materialization of ghosts and the memories of their loved ones.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Director: Jack GoldGenres: Drama, Sci-Fi, Short Film

Plot Summary

Based on the Ray Bradbury short story, this film explores the dangers of unchecked technological advancement and parental neglect. A family lives in a futuristic automated home, where the children spend most of their time in a virtual reality nursery that simulates an African veldt. The nursery's advanced technology becomes increasingly disturbing as it reflects the children's violent desires, leading to a terrifying climax when the parents realize the VR is no longer just a simulation.

Critical Reception

As a made-for-television adaptation of a classic Ray Bradbury story, 'The Veldt' received moderate attention upon its release. Critiques often focused on its faithfulness to the source material and its cautionary tale about technology. While not a major critical darling, it is recognized for its atmospheric tension and thought-provoking themes within the sci-fi television landscape of its era.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its atmospheric and unsettling depiction of a technologically advanced, yet emotionally sterile, future.

  • Commentators noted its effective adaptation of Ray Bradbury's chilling cautionary tale about the perils of unchecked desires and neglect.

  • The performances, particularly Brad Dourif's portrayal of the father, were often highlighted for contributing to the story's psychological tension.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this 1987 short film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The 1987 adaptation of 'The Veldt' was part of 'The Ray Bradbury Theater' anthology series, with Bradbury himself often serving as host and narrator for episodes based on his works.

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