Few films have left a lasting impact on both action cinema and science fiction quite like the original RoboCop (1987) and its sequels, RoboCop 2 (1990) and RoboCop 3 (1993). Directed by Paul Verhoeven, the first film masterfully combined brutal action, biting satire, and philosophical questions about identity and technology. While the sequels had mixed receptions, the original trilogy remains a must-watch for fans of dystopian cinema.
But why should you revisit these films today? Whether you’re a long-time fan or someone who hasn’t seen them in years, here are ten great reasons to rewatch the RoboCop films.
1. A Perfect Blend of Action and Satire
On the surface, RoboCop is an explosive 80s action film filled with shootouts, cyborgs, and over-the-top violence. But underneath all the chaos, it’s also a razor-sharp satire of corporate greed, media sensationalism, and law enforcement.
Paul Verhoeven masterfully blended dystopian themes with dark humour, making RoboCop more than just a standard action flick. Its critiques of privatisation, unchecked capitalism, and the militarisation of the police force remain eerily relevant today.
2. Peter Weller’s Iconic Performance
Peter Weller’s portrayal of Alex Murphy/RoboCop is nothing short of legendary. Despite being hidden under a bulky cybernetic suit for most of the film, Weller delivers an incredibly nuanced performance.
His robotic movements, precise mannerisms, and the subtle humanity he brings to the role make RoboCop one of the most compelling sci-fi protagonists ever. His transformation from a regular cop into a programmed machine – and ultimately back to reclaiming his identity – is both tragic and inspiring.
3. Memorable One-Liners and Quotes
Some films have quotable dialogue, but RoboCop has lines that have stood the test of time.
- “Dead or alive, you’re coming with me.”
- “Your move, creep.”
- “I’d buy that for a dollar!”
These lines, along with many others, have been referenced in pop culture, video games, and even real-world discussions. If you rewatch the films, you’ll likely find yourself quoting them for weeks afterwards.
4. Groundbreaking Practical Effects and Suit Design
Despite being released in the 1980s, RoboCop’s practical effects still hold up today. From the stop-motion ED-209 battle sequences to the gruesome body horror scenes (like Murphy’s brutal execution), the film showcases some of the best special effects of its era.
Rob Bottin’s iconic RoboCop suit design remains one of the most recognisable in science fiction, perfectly blending machine and man. The effects team’s work ensures the film feels tactile and real in a way that modern CGI-heavy films often struggle to achieve.
5. Unforgettable Villains
A hero is only as good as their enemies, and RoboCop has some of the best.
- Clarence Boddicker (Kurtwood Smith) – A sadistic, foul-mouthed crime lord who delivers one of the most entertaining villainous performances of the 80s.
- Dick Jones (Ronny Cox) – The corrupt OCP executive, a perfect example of corporate greed taken to its extreme.
- Cain (RoboCop 2) – A ruthless drug lord who becomes a terrifying cyborg in one of the franchise’s most intense showdowns.
From street thugs to corporate overlords, the RoboCop films provide a fantastic mix of memorable and truly detestable villains.
6. The Ultraviolence That Shocked Audiences
One of RoboCop’s defining traits is its over-the-top violence. Paul Verhoeven deliberately exaggerated the blood and gore to make a point about media desensitisation.
The original film features brutal scenes that shocked audiences upon release – Murphy’s execution, the ED-209 boardroom massacre, and the infamous toxic waste scene. Yet, these moments serve a purpose beyond shock value, reinforcing the film’s themes of corporate negligence and human suffering.
7. The Soundtrack That Enhances the Experience
Basil Poledouris’ score for RoboCop is one of the most underrated film soundtracks of all time. The sweeping orchestral score perfectly captures the mix of heroism and dystopia, making RoboCop feel both larger than life and deeply tragic.
The main theme, with its powerful brass and militaristic rhythm, is instantly recognisable and adds an extra layer of epicness to every scene RoboCop appears in.
8. The Sharp Satirical TV Commercials and News Segments
One of the most brilliant aspects of RoboCop is its use of fake news reports and commercials. These segments seamlessly blend world-building with satire, showcasing a society driven by consumerism and corporate control.
- The “6000 SUX” advert, poking fun at the obsession with oversized, gas-guzzling cars.
- The “Nuke ‘Em” board game commercial, a darkly comedic take on nuclear warfare.
- The absurdly detached news reports, treating mass destruction as just another headline.
These elements add to the film’s sense of realism and reinforce its dystopian vision of the future.
9. The Legacy and Influence on Modern Sci-Fi
Many modern sci-fi films, TV shows, and video games owe a debt to RoboCop. The film’s themes of AI, cybernetics, and corporate control have influenced countless works, from Ghost in the Shell to Deus Ex and Cyberpunk 2077.
Even films like The Dark Knight borrowed elements from RoboCop, particularly in their depiction of corporate corruption and crime-ridden cities. Rewatching the trilogy today, it’s easy to spot how it helped shape sci-fi storytelling for decades to come.
10. Because the Remake Couldn’t Compare
In 2014, Hollywood attempted to reboot RoboCop, but the remake lacked the edge, grit, and satirical bite of the original. While it had impressive effects and a solid cast, it ultimately felt too polished and safe, missing the essence that made RoboCop special.
The original films embraced their absurdity while making sharp critiques of society. The remake, by contrast, played it straight and stripped away much of what made the original compelling. If you ever need a reminder of why practical effects, dark humour, and Verhoeven’s direction were so important, rewatching the 1987 classic is the perfect cure.
The RoboCop films remain some of the most entertaining, thought-provoking, and action-packed sci-fi movies ever made. With their mix of thrilling set pieces, unforgettable characters, and biting satire, they’re just as relevant today as they were in the 80s and 90s.
So, dust off your DVD or Blu-ray collection, fire up your favourite streaming service, and get ready to revisit the world of RoboCop. After all, some films are just too good to stay in the past.
What’s your favourite RoboCop moment? Let us know in the comments below!