High school student David Lightman has a talent for hacking. But while trying to hack into a computer system to play unreleased video games, he unwittingly taps into the Department of Defense's war computer and initiates a confrontation of global proportions. Together with his friend and a wizardly computer genius, David must race against time to outwit his opponent and prevent a nuclear Armageddon.
Production
NORAD set cost $1 million — largest since Cleopatra.
Writing
"The only winning move is not to play" — iconic finale.
Practical Effects
Actual IMSAI 8080 computer, not props — Broderick learned to use it.
Director
John Badham
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This film literally changed policy — Reagan watched it and asked his general if this could happen, leading to the first presidential cybersecurity directive.
The IMSAI 8080 was so loud that dialogue had to be re-recorded; Broderick's typing in the poster is completely wrong finger placement because he's actually playing the director's notes.
US
