Science on Screen

Short Circuit

Mon, February 9, 2026 at 7:00 pm

Utah Film Center 375 W 400 N (west entrance)

Featuring a pre-film presentation by Mike White and his RAS Robot pertaining to the the the field of robotics portrayed in the film as part of the Science on Screen program.

Directed by John Badham

Runtime: 98 MIN

Year: 1986

Country: United States

Language: English

Cast: Ally Sheedy, Steve Guttenberg, Fisher Stevens, G.W. Bailey

Number 5, one of a group of experimental military robots, undergoes a sudden transformation after being struck by lightning. He develops self-awareness, consciousness, and a fear of the reprogramming that awaits him back at the factory. With the help of a young woman, Number 5 tries to evade capture and convince his creator that he has truly become alive.

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