2 Extremes: The Johnny Five Tapes Are Full of Carnage

 




















When I talked to Eric about getting in on 2 Extremes, I didn’t know what to pick, or expect. So, I thought for a bit and went with the first two that came to me. The Poughkeepsie Tapes and Short Circuit are my picks for this interesting journey. I chose these because of the feeling, and the look these two films give off. The Poughkeepsie Tapes is a very dark and depressing film with a depressing vibe to it. Short Circuit Is a happy film full of hope and adventure, and a warm vibe with it. So, lets begin this crazy journey!

 I started out with The Poughkeepsie Tapes. One of the few found footage films I actually enjoy. When I watch this, it really brings a feeling of dread over me. You witness a killer improve on his kills and torture, all while he films it. It is interesting and creepy at the same time. As a parent, one of the kills makes me very uncomfortable. When a little girl is playing in her front yard, the killer abducts her, something every parent fears. Even when he abducts, and tortures Cheryl Dempsey, you feel sadness and helplessness. When you witness her transformation from a young woman to a slave, it is very pitiful. The movie just shows you, do you really know who is living near you, or who is standing next to you in line. If you love dark and disturbing movies, this is for you.

 Short Circuit was my other extreme. I chose this movie because it shows the robot Johnny 5 coming to life. Always wanting to learn and understand life. I remember going to the theater and seeing this when it came out. So, it gives me a good, happy feeling watching it. The film has a great cast, Ally Sheedy, Steve Guttenberg, Fisher Stevens , and E.G. Bailey. This movie is all about living and making the best out of your life. Learn, love, be kind to each other. You can watch this film with your family and everyone will enjoy it. It also reunites fellow Police Academy actors Steve Guttenberg and E.G Bailey, together these two are awesome! All Johnny 5 wanted to do is stay alive, and learn and grow, just like any living thing. It shows we all need love, friends, and happiness in our lives. 

After watching Short Circuit I had a better understanding of The Poughkeepsie Tapes. Cheryl, being held captive for 8 years, turned the abuse into a form of love and devotion. In her mind, this was his way of loving her. Johnny 5 was wanting to find a meaning to his life, and in the process he found friends who loved him for who he is. These two films show you the different sides of humanity. The dark, evil side, and the caring, loving side.

 I hope you all enjoyed my trip into madness. A huge Thanks goes to Eric Martin for allowing me to join in on this experiment.

-Andy Champion

Andy lives in South Carolina with his wife Ashley, and their two kids. He is a mechanic, and loves movies, video games, and collecting toys. You can check out his work on the blog video-carnage.com.