Cherry 2000

Introduction:
Welcome back to “Lunchtime Movie Critics” where we unearth the gems and oddities of cinema history. Today, we’re exploring the 1987 cult classic “Cherry 2000,” a film that merges post-apocalyptic adventure with an unconventional love story. Directed by Steve De Jarnatt, “Cherry 2000” paints a future where human relationships are as disposable as the technology that defines them. Let’s dive into this bizarre yet thought-provoking exploration of love and obsolescence.

Plot: A Quest for a Perfect Love
“Cherry 2000” is set in a dystopian future where human connections have taken a backseat to technological convenience. The protagonist, Sam Treadwell, played by David Andrews, is a successful businessman who leads a comfortable yet unremarkable life, his emotional needs fulfilled by a lifelike robot named Cherry 2000. When Cherry malfunctions, Sam is devastated—not just by the loss of a domestic helper, but by the disappearance of his ideal partner.

Determined to replace her, Sam hires a tough tracker named E. Johnson, portrayed with grit and gusto by Melanie Griffith, to guide him through the dangerous wastelands to a factory that still houses the same Cherry 2000 model. What begins as a straightforward mission soon evolves into a journey of self-discovery, challenging Sam’s perceptions of love and value in a world where anything can be commodified.

Characters: Between Human and Machine
“Cherry 2000” showcases a range of characters who embody the film’s central themes of human vs. artificial life. Sam Treadwell’s journey is one of realization and growth, moving from a superficial understanding of love to a deeper appreciation for human connection. Melanie Griffith’s E. Johnson is the perfect foil to Sam’s initial naivety, offering a raw, human complexity that contrasts sharply with the predictably perfect Cherry.

The character of Cherry 2000 herself, played by Pamela Gidley, is a fascinating study in what men like Sam seek in a partner: beauty, compliance, and eternal availability, raising questions about objectification and the idealization of partners.

Themes: A Satirical Look at Love and Technology
“Cherry 2000” operates on multiple levels, both as a thrilling adventure and a satirical critique of societal trends. The film’s portrayal of relationships commodified and simplified by technology serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of seeking perfection. It challenges the audience to consider where the line is drawn between genuine human interaction and manufactured experiences.

Additionally, the film explores themes of survival and resilience, both in the literal sense of navigating a dangerous wasteland and in the emotional sense of surviving heartbreak and disappointment. The wasteland journey mirrors Sam’s internal journey, as both landscapes are fraught with obstacles that test the limits of endurance and adaptability.

Cinematography and Setting: The World of Tomorrow
The visual storytelling in “Cherry 2000” is compelling, utilizing the stark, desolate landscapes to reflect the barrenness of a world stripped of genuine human connection. The cinematography captures the contrast between the sterile, sanitized interiors of the city and the wild, untamed wastelands, symbolizing the dichotomy between artificiality and authenticity.

Legacy and Impact: Cult Status Achieved
While not a blockbuster at the time of its release, “Cherry 2000” has achieved cult status for its unique take on common sci-fi themes. Its mix of quirky humor, action, and romance, combined with a deeper message, has garnered it a dedicated following. The film’s predictions about society’s reliance on technology for emotional fulfillment are more relevant today than ever, giving it a timeless quality that resonates with contemporary audiences.

Conclusion:
“Cherry 2000” is more than just a quirky sci-fi flick; it’s a deep dive into what makes us human in an increasingly artificial world. It challenges viewers to consider how much of our humanity we are willing to outsource to technology and at what cost. As we wrap up today’s discussion, “Cherry 2000” remains a fascinating exploration of the complexities of human desires, wrapped in the shiny foil of a futuristic adventure.