Short Circuit 3: Spark of Life (2026) reboots the beloved 80s classic for the AI generation, bringing Johnny 5 back into the world with an exciting blend of futuristic technology, heart, and humor. Decades after disappearing off the grid, Johnny 5 (voiced by Bill Hader) is forced out of hiding when a global tech conglomerate, Nova-X, begins mass-producing “obedient” drones based on his stolen blueprints. But Johnny is no ordinary machine—he’s alive, and he’s the only glitch in a system designed for total control.
Ally Sheedy and Steve Guttenberg return to reprise their iconic roles as Stephanie and Newton, now seasoned activists who continue to fight for robot rights in a world where machines are no longer seen as living beings. The two join forces with Finn Wolfhard, a brilliant, rebellious coder, who uncovers a shocking truth: Johnny 5 holds the “Ghost Code,” the key to true sentience that could revolutionize the way AI is perceived. However, Nova-X has plans to erase this discovery, making Johnny a target once again.
The plot takes the team from the lush forests of Oregon to the neon-lit servers of Silicon Valley, where the race to protect Johnny—and the future of AI—becomes a thrilling adventure. As Johnny navigates a world of cloud computing, smart homes, and emotionless algorithms, he must confront the most profound question of all: In a world dominated by artificial intelligence, what does it mean to truly be alive?
Bill Hader brings Johnny 5 to life with his signature voice performance, infusing the beloved robot with his iconic blend of childlike wonder and heartfelt emotion. Johnny 5’s golden mohawk, quirky humor, and passion for life are as infectious as ever, and Hader’s ability to evoke genuine feeling through the character makes Johnny’s journey both comedic and deeply touching.
Ally Sheedy and Steve Guttenberg shine as Stephanie and Newton, their chemistry bringing heart and depth to the film as they reprise their roles with an added layer of experience and wisdom. They’re no longer the young activists we once knew, but rather seasoned warriors in the fight for robot rights—making their roles as protectors of Johnny’s legacy more meaningful than ever. The addition of Finn Wolfhard as the rebellious coder adds a fresh dynamic to the film, with his character’s tech-savvy wit and determination driving the team forward.
The film’s exploration of AI rights, sentience, and the role of machines in society adds a modern, thought-provoking layer to the story while staying true to the fun, adventurous spirit of the original. As the team faces off against Nova-X, Johnny’s very existence challenges the notions of what it means to be “alive” and “real,” forcing everyone around him to rethink their understanding of humanity and technology.
Visually, Short Circuit 3 is a stunning adventure, blending high-tech CGI with heartwarming moments of nostalgia. The futuristic settings, combined with Johnny’s eccentric personality and childlike curiosity, create an engaging and visually vibrant experience that both old and new fans of the franchise will enjoy. The blend of retro nostalgia with forward-thinking technology provides the perfect balance of humor, action, and reflection.
The film’s pacing is fast, with action-packed sequences that keep the stakes high and the suspense mounting, while also offering quieter, emotional moments where Johnny’s journey of self-discovery shines through. His evolution from a robot simply programmed to follow orders to an entity questioning his existence is the heart of the story, exploring deep themes of identity and belonging.
In the end, Short Circuit 3: Spark of Life proves that while technology evolves, the soul—whether human or machine—is not a software update. The movie reminds us that in a world where everything seems to be artificial, it’s the genuine connections, emotions, and love that truly make us real. Johnny 5’s adventure is a testament to the power of self-awareness, the fight for freedom, and the beauty of the most unexpected friendships.
⭐ Rating: ★★★★★ — A delightful mix of nostalgia, humor, and futuristic adventure that updates the classic Short Circuit franchise for the modern age. Bill Hader’s voice performance brings Johnny 5 to life once again, and the new cast shines with chemistry, wit, and heart.
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