Total Recall
Peter Charney

Review by Peter Charney Pro

Total Recall 1990

★★★★

Watched 15 Apr 2024

While it might share much of its DNA with RoboCop—both films brimming with sociopolitical commentary that continues to remain relevant—Total Recall takes its hard science-fiction premise to another planet and ramps up the stakes all the way to the potential end of humanity. Verhoeven combines pulpy genre visuals, badass action set pieces, and practical effects that still impress today with the classic sci-fi exploration of "what is reality?" 

Some of the world-building and plot details occasionally feel scattered, and I don’t always find Arnold Schwarzenegger particularly compelling as an actor, but Total Recall is just weird enough to remain surprising and unexpectedly evocative throughout. I’ll be thinking about the cab driver animatronic, the stomach baby, and “The Last Resort” bar for a long time.

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