“50% man, 50% car, 100% policemanThis phrase left its mark on a whole generation of viewers in 1987. It sums up the concept of RoboCop, the futuristic action film directed by Paul Verhoeven, in just a few words. Considered a classic, this science fiction blockbuster. It goes beyond its ridiculous premise. However, the game was far from a win.
A satire of America
Written by Edward Neumeier and Michael Miner, the story takes place in Detroit, which is in the hands of criminals. In this city, the OCP company controls the police and oversees public services. their goal? Transform Detroit into Delta City, a modern, crime-free city.
As you can imagine, this company is not trustworthy and even goes so far as to turn the dead body of a police officer into a weapon. This is where the RoboCop character was born and where things get complicated.
When the script was circulated in Hollywood, it was trashed by many directors, including David Cronenberg. Paul Verhoeven, the Dutch filmmaker known for his violent and sultry films – Flesh and Blood, The Fourth Man – doesn’t want that. In the end, it was his wife who made him change his mind.
Criticism of violence
Actually, he doesn’t know it yet, but RoboCop is a project created for Paul Verhoeven. With a taste for satire and cynicism, he sees this as an opportunity to openly criticize the America of Ronald Reagan – president from 1981 and in office until 1989. In doing so, he mocks the power of big business, capitalism, and society’s obsession with violence.
What might seem like a simple action movie about a hero that seems straight out of a comic book ends up being a political and thoughtful fable that directly attacks institutions. Throughout his career, Paul Verhoeven has been inspired by three main themes: violence, sex and religion. RoboCop It’s undoubtedly his least sexual film, but it doesn’t skimp on the violence.
Regarding religion, the director even goes so far as to draw a parallel between his main character and the figure of Christ by walking on water at the end of the film. It’s quite a symbol.
RoboCop is available on Prime Video.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
