Cherry 2000

Cherry 2000 is a post-apocalyptic science fiction film released in 1987 that presents a unique blend of adventure and romance, cast against the backdrop of dystopian America. Under the direction of Steve De Jarnatt, Cherry 2000 showcases charismatic performances from a star-studded cast including Melanie Griffith, David Andrews, and Pamela Gidley.

Our narrative commences in the year 2017 – an era depicted as strangely dystopian where America has experienced socio-economic downfall with societal norms drastically changed. Consumerism includes robotic companions, which are seen as more desirable partners than humans, a concept which the protagonist, Sam Treadwell (David Andrews) completely embraces. Sam's life takes a turn when his robotic wife, Cherry 2000 (Pamela Gidley), short-circuits.

Left bereft without his mechanical sweetheart who was more than just a machine to him, Sam realizes that Cherry 2000's model has been discontinued. The only way to resurrect Cherry is by securing a chip that lies in the dangerous wasteland known as the "zone 7", a lawless territory populated by sociopaths and outlaws. Venturing to retrieve the microchip becomes a perilous necessity, a quest that Sam can't undertake alone.

Enter E. Johnson (Melanie Griffith) – a tough, no-nonsense bounty hunter who is everything Cherry is not – fearless, adventurous, and completely human. E. Johnson's character is portrayed brilliantly by Griffith, who makes an unexpectedly fitting action heroine. Griffith brings a vivacious energy to E. Johnson, starkly juxtaposing her against the subdued, mechanized nature of Cherry 2000.

Sam hires E. Johnson to accompany him into the forbidden zone, adding a new dimension to the storyline. The chemistry between Sam and E. Johnson keeps the audience engaged as they traverse dangerous and unforgiving landscapes, encounter outlandish characters, and do whatever it takes to retrieve the precious chip.

What follows is a riveting journey of danger and rediscovery. Throughout their adventure in the wasteland, Sam witnesses what it means to connect with a fellow human as opposed to a programmed machine, despite his initial beliefs. Thus, the movie also takes on a philosophical undertone as it reflects on human connection, emotion, and the concept of ideal love.

Cherry 2000 paints a distinct picture of a dystopian future and does an excellent job at it. The movie creates a unique fusion of genres, giving us a taste of a grim future replete with dilapidated buildings, desolated landscapes, and non-functioning societies, all while never losing touch with its romantic core.

Woven into this elaborate narrative is an immersive score that elevates the viewing experience. Composed by Basil Poledouris, the music in Cherry 2000 plays its part in narrating the story, with each note accentuating the highs and lows of the characters' journey.

Though the underlying topic of this movie is a dystopian critique of the direction our society is possibly taking, it is presented in a package that entertains throughout. The placed comedic elements and dry humour in the film help to create a balance between its grim and exploratory themes, making for a watch that is enjoyable yet subtly thought-provoking.

Cherry 2000 is definitely not your typical 80's sci-fi actioneer. It is a cinematic adventure that challenges the boundaries of several genres, managing to be so much more than just a sci-fi or a romantic movie. It touches upon profound aspects such as the nature of love, companionship, human connection, and societal norms, while simultaneously delivering an action-packed, riveting watch.

For fans of offbeat cinema that blends the usual with the unusual, Cherry 2000 stands out as a remarkably entertaining film that captures the essence of a post-apocalyptic adventure laced with romance. It more than lives up to the creative pedigree of the 80s, offering viewers a glimpse of a probable future from the perspective of the past. With seamless storytelling, laudable performances, and engrossing themes, Cherry 2000 strikes a chord with its viewers, imprinting a vivid impression of the beauty, complexity, and tragic strangeness of the world it creates.