Josh Clark

I grew up as an 80's kid and I watched the OG Robocop and Robocop 2 when they came out. They left quite a cinematic impression on me, even influencing how I would play with G.I. Joe and Transformers toys back then and even some influence on how I write as a creator today. I was a huge fan. I knew that the violence was over-the-top and the commercials were an exaggeration of our consumer lifestyle even as a child. Corporations running everything is a scary notion that I didn't even comprehend until a few years later. Was the original film bringing change to society or elevate humanity? Far from it. It was schlocky violence wrapped in revenge and presented in widescreen format for all to sit back and escape reality for a bit. This new Robocop was not nearly as bad as most people say. I think the problem is many 30-40 somethings like myself (41) are comparing this new one to the original(s). I understand that comparisons can (and should) be made since this is a remake. But I would also judge it for what it is beyond remaking a classic from our youth. Is it a great movie? No. But I think it is a good action movie. Whenever I judge a movie like this, I try to think back to all those classics from my youth. Favorites of mine, sure, but great movies? No. Those classics that aren't great movies were good for what they actually are: awesome action movies. Disconnect your brain and enjoy the ride. I think that it is executed well. I think the production values are high and the actors do a fine job playing their roles. I honestly can't think of anything that stood out as stupid (but I'm sure someone will carve up this review and point something out). It has been awhile since I watched it (a few years, but I watched it several times within the first few months of home release). Unfortunately I cannot pull up memories of the plot that I thought were bad or ridiculous. So maybe it is a good thing that nothing stood out as bad? Maybe not a glowing review, but it this film is at the very least worth a watch if you like more modern action movies. Many remakes get overwhelmingly negative reviews I think because fanboys compare it too strongly to the original. Maybe that criticism is justified. Hollywood loves a remake. But I try to compare to the original but also think of it as if it was not a remake--as it was it's own movie. Rent it on a streaming service like Amazon or your streamer of choice. 4 out of 5 stars. I liked it enough to watch it numerous times, some while sitting to enjoy the movie, other times having it on while drawing or doing grown-up chores around the house.