Real Genius (1985)

15 year old Mitch Taylor (Gabe Jarret) has been recuited to join Prof. Hathaway’s (William Atherton) science team. Alongside fellow super genius and senior Chris Knight (Val Kilmer), Mitch is working on an advanced laser project and unknowingly creating a lethal military weapon. Besides adjusting to campus life, Mitch is also adjusting to mentor’s—Knight’s—odd behavior. When the duo discovers the truth behind the project Mitch and Chris team up for a bit of revenge.

Real Genius is totally 80s! It’s a bit corny, but between Kilmer’s comedic timing and the sharp dialogue, this one is funny.. The misfit cast is key. Knight is a genius turned stud who no longer studies. In contrast is Mitch, who does nothing but. Prof Hathaway is an egolomaniac. Add John Gries as Laslo who lives in the closet and Jordan—a never sleeping crazy girl and you’re made.

Immensely quotable, the dialogue never misses. Kilmer’s delivery is brilliant. Behind the cast and dialogue is frame after frame of craziness that demands rewatching—love the progression of recorders. Throw in some Tears for Fears and you’ve got everything you need right here.

As I see it, Real Genius is madly underrated. If you haven’t seen it, go now. "It’s a moral imperative."