Spare Parts

Four Hispanic students at a brand new high school form a robotics club under the guidance of the district's newest science teacher, Fredi Cameron. With little training and a shoestring budget, they cobble together a working bot from junkyard parts and salvaged car components, bringing their collective dream within reach for about 800 dollars. Their ambition is a national robotics contest where they will square off against seasoned teams and even the MIT champions. As they prototype, calculate, and iterate, the group discovers that building a robot is only half the challenge. They also learn to listen, trust, and stand up for one another, creating bonds that outlast the competition.

Directed by Sean McNamara, Spare Parts is based on the true story told in Joshua Davis's Spare Parts and translates real life events into a brisk drama. The screenplay comes from Elissa Matsueda and Davis, with George Lopez in the lead. Its cast includes Jamie Lee Curtis as the principal and Marisa Tomei as a school counselor, grounding the story in humor and real school dynamics.

The film foregrounds four immigrant students who find a shared language in code, circuitry, and teamwork. It spotlights family support and community pride, boosting conversations about access to STEM in underserved neighborhoods and the importance of mentors who see ability before background. The film also suggests that opportunities in robotics can open doors to college and future careers.

Critics respond with warmth to the performances and the film's emphasis on resilience and collaboration. George Lopez and Marisa Tomei bring grounded presence, while the story underlines how curiosity, grit, and cross cultural friendships can overcome obstacles. Some reviews call the arc conventional, yet the heart stays strong. Its themes resonate with students facing obstacles in pursuing science and engineering.

Box office: the movie rolled out in limited markets and did not report significant grosses, reflecting a modest theatrical footprint rather than a wide release. Its release strategy prioritized accessibility for schools and community screenings, helping the title reach younger audiences outside major urban centers.