Weird Science poster

Weird Science

"It's all in the name of science...Weird Science."

Movie PG-13 1985 1h 33m 6.5 /10

Gary and Wyatt feel invisible in their high school life, ignored by peers and tired of trying the same tired schemes to fit in. They tinker with a home computer and, without any warning, conjure a striking woman named Lisa whose arrival flips their routine upside down. Lisa becomes a catalyst for... Read more

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Streaming availability last verified: February 13, 2026

About Weird Science

Gary and Wyatt feel invisible in their high school life, ignored by peers and tired of trying the same tired schemes to fit in. They tinker with a home computer and, without any warning, conjure a striking woman named Lisa whose arrival flips their routine upside down. Lisa becomes a catalyst for confidence and chaos, throwing the boys into situations that demand they grow up fast and pretend they belong in the adult world. What starts as a prank quickly spirals into a test of friendship, loyalty, and responsibility as Gary and Wyatt navigate blunders, crushes, and the consequences of bending rules to get noticed. The film blends comedy, fantasy and romance as misfits chase acceptance, without losing its charm.

Directed by John Hughes, Weird Science comes from his own screenplay rather than a book or graphic adaptation, capturing a late 80s teen fantasy vibe. The film mixes practical effects with humor that defined Hughes's adolescent comedy and celebrates growth.

Budgeted at about 7.5 million, the movie earned roughly 39 million worldwide, recouping its costs and becoming a recognizable late 80s comedy with enduring home audio-visual appeal. It found a second life on cable and home video throughout the years.

Fans remember the film for its blend of tech fantasy and cheeky humor, pairing teen wish fulfillment with a playful take on dating in the 1980s. Lisa's presence sparked discussions about gender roles while the movie helped fuse sci fi with comedy for a wide audience in a few scenes.

Critics generally appreciated its mix of humor and fantasy, noting the charismatic performances by Hall and LeBrock and Hughes's knack for teen voice despite some crude gags. The film explores friendship, self-confidence, and the consequences of shortcuts in social life. It remains a touchstone for understanding 80s teen cinema today.

Details

Release Date
August 01, 1985
Runtime
1h 33m
Rating
PG-13
User Ratings
1,505 votes
Type
Movie
Genres
Comedy, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Romance
Country
United States
Studio
Universal Pictures +1 more
Budget
$7,500,000
Box Office
$38,934,048
External Links
View on IMDB

Official Trailer

Cast

Anthony Michael Hall

Anthony Michael Hall

Gary

Kelly LeBrock

Kelly LeBrock

Lisa

Ilan Mitchell-Smith

Ilan Mitchell-Smith

Wyatt

Bill Paxton

Bill Paxton

Chet

Suzanne Snyder

Suzanne Snyder

Deb

Judie Aronson

Judie Aronson

Hilly

Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr.

Ian

Robert Rusler

Robert Rusler

Max

Vernon Wells

Vernon Wells

Lord General

Britt Leach

Britt Leach

Al

Written by: John Hughes

Frequently Asked Questions

Weird Science is not currently available on streaming subscription services, but you can rent or buy it on Apple iTunes, Google Play, Vudu, and Amazon Video.

With a rating of 6.5/10 from 1,505 viewers, Weird Science is considered solid entertainment worth checking out. It's a good pick if you enjoy comedy, fantasy, and science fiction stories.

Gary and Wyatt feel invisible in their high school life, ignored by peers and tired of trying the same tired schemes to fit in. They tinker with a home computer and, without any warning, conjure a striking woman named Lisa whose arrival flips their routine upside down. Lisa becomes a catalyst for...

Anthony Michael Hall plays Gary, one of the two unpopular teens who create Lisa. In Weird Science, Gary teams with Wyatt to bring Lisa to life.

Weird Science was created by John Hughes. He’s credited with shaping the film's story and tone as a classic 80s teen comedy.