Batteries Not Included: A heartwarming tale of tiny spaceships and even tinier humans

Batteries Not Included - A Shockingly Sweet Surprise

A Tiny Invasion of the Most Adorable Kind

Imagine E.T., but with a squadron of miniature spaceship-repairing robots. That's *Batteries Not Included*, a 1987 family fantasy-comedy directed by Matthew Robbins. Prepare for a heartwarming tale that's as charming as it is surprisingly poignant – with a side of extraterrestrial intervention, of course!

Synopsis: When Rent Control Gets Cosmic

A feisty elderly couple, Frank McRae and Jessica Tandy, face eviction from their New York apartment building by a heartless developer, played by Hume Cronyn. But help arrives in the form of adorable, flying, miniature spacecraft that fix everything and battle the forces of gentrification, one tiny wrench at a time. It's a David-and-Goliath story, except David has a fleet of ridiculously cute alien allies.

Technical Brilliance: Miniature Miracles

The special effects, considering this is 1987, are surprisingly impressive. The miniature ships zip around with a delightful grace, like tiny, metallic bumblebees. The cinematography masterfully captures the heart of New York, its gritty reality juxtaposed with the fantastical elements – it’s a visual tapestry of heartwarming urban charm. The soundtrack perfectly complements the film's tender tone, its nostalgic score evoking the feeling of a warm hug. The overall effect is a bit like a whimsical, low-budget Spielbergian masterpiece, reminiscent of a less chaotic, much more cuddly *Close Encounters*.

Stellar Performances: More Than Just Nuts and Bolts

Jessica Tandy and Hume Cronyn are absolutely captivating; their performances are seasoned with a kind of salty-sweet wisdom that grounds the film’s more fantastical elements. Frank McRae provides the perfect counterpoint as the down-to-earth pragmatist, his gruff exterior masking a heart of gold. They're all perfectly cast and embody the spirit of the movie. Who needs CGI when you have such raw talent?

Themes: A Sweet Message From Above (and Below)

*Batteries Not Included* isn’t just about alien intervention; it's a potent brew of themes encompassing community, resilience, and the unwavering power of hope. It's a gentle reminder of the importance of family, both human and... well, extraterrestrial. The film's underlying message is subtly powerful, reminding us that even in the face of overwhelming odds, the human (and alien) spirit endures. Makes you want to reach for a box of tissues and a spaceship-shaped cookie, honestly.

Verdict: A Highly-Charged Recommendation

*Batteries Not Included* is a delightful family film with a charming story, a winning cast, and surprisingly effective special effects for its time. It's not a cinematic masterpiece, but it's a feel-good movie that's as effective today as it was in 1987. It's the cinematic equivalent of a warm cup of cocoa on a chilly evening. Rating: 6.6/10 (A solid, if not spectacular, performance.) Recommended for: Families, fans of feel-good movies, and anyone who appreciates a touch of heartwarming extraterrestrial intervention. In conclusion, *Batteries Not Included* is a surprising cinematic triumph; a sweet, low-key adventure that proves sometimes the best stories come in the smallest packages (and spaceships). It might not blow your mind, but it will definitely warm your heart – and that, my friends, is invaluable.

Note : 5/5

Publié le 15 Dec 2024