Netflix now streams a divisive sci-fi film – people tend to either strongly love it or strongly dislike it. Interestingly, this movie was a key influence on the Wachowskis, the directors of The Matrix. When they first pitched The Matrix, studios thought it was too unusual, so the Wachowskis cleverly used this earlier film as an example to demonstrate their vision, and it worked – securing funding for what would become a groundbreaking and iconic sci-fi classic.
As a huge fan of cyberpunk, I always found Johnny Mnemonic fascinating. It stars Keanu Reeves as a ‘data courier’ – basically, someone who carries information inside his brain. The catch? He’s got 48 hours to get this information out, or it’ll kill him! The movie follows Johnny as he races against time, with the help of a tough bodyguard named Jane (Dina Meyer), to find the passwords he needs. But he quickly learns he’s being chased by both ruthless criminals and the very people who put the data in his head – everyone wants what he’s carrying, and they’ll do anything to get it.
It’s An Absolutely Underrated Cult-Classic
Critics widely panned the movie, giving it a poor 21% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Many described it as a cheesy cyberpunk thriller that lacked depth, failing to recognize its intentional over-the-top style and potential as a cult classic. Mike Clark of USA Today famously quipped that watching a video of Johnny Depp pictures in alphabetical order would be more enjoyable. Roger Ebert, while critical, acknowledged the film’s bizarre charm, calling it a “goofy gesture” that, despite not deserving serious analysis, possessed a strange, almost endearing quality.
Many critics didn’t quite understand the film, but Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian did, noting its touching blend of futuristic settings and a longing for the past, represented through the character Johnny’s lost memories. He also praised Keanu Reeves, stating he’s at his best when playing calm and brooding roles. One viewer described it as a strong cyberpunk film, acknowledging some imperfections in the acting and editing. However, they were captivated by the actors, the immersive world, and the film’s overall dark, gritty atmosphere. They also admitted their fondness might be influenced by its nostalgic appeal, remembering it as a late-night TV favorite from a specific era.
Though this viewer sums it up best: “What in the actual proto-Matrix f*ck. Love!”
So if you want to binge some cyberpunk weirdness, Johnny Mnemonic is absolutely the way to do so.
Read More
- Best Controller Settings for ARC Raiders
- Donkey Kong Country Returns HD version 1.1.0 update now available, adds Dixie Kong and Switch 2 enhancements
- Ashes of Creation Rogue Guide for Beginners
- Sega Insider Drops Tease of Next Sonic Game
- Fantasista Asuka launches February 12
- Neverness to Everness ‘Co-Ex Test’ sign-ups now available
- When to Expect One Piece Chapter 1172 Spoilers & Manga Leaks
- The Festive Pottery Throw Down 2025 line-up: Meet the celebrities
- AAA Ubisoft Games Now $6 for Limited Time
- Arc Games is Now an Independent Game Publisher
2026-01-03 23:40