“At first, few knew what to make of it. A soapy, brainless space opera with Hollywood's toothiest young stars, or a startlingly prophetic indictment of military policy? Hey, why not both? Informed by Verhoeven's memories of Nazi-occupied Holland, plus screenwriter Ed Neumier's satirization of the 1959 source novel's pro-fascist stance, STARSHIP TROOPERS is the garish outlier among the self-serious war tales of the 1990s.” - Max Kyburz, The L Magazine
“A commercial and critical flop upon its release, the virtues of Paul Verhoeven's satirical take on Robert Heinlein's Cold War sci-fi novel are stunningly clear in the context of 9-11 and the Iraq War. Few recent films tap into the underlying forces shaping today's world as piercingly as Verhoeven's vision of a thoroughly Americanized global civilization that exploits media and youth culture to wage endless war against an appointed enemy.” - Kevin B, Lee, Slant
Paul Verhoeven’s provocative adaptation of Robert Heinlein’s 1959 novel plays ironic games with fascist ideology while delivering brilliantly constructed action scenes and eye-popping special effects. In a future society dominated by the military elite, buff young recruits gear up to save Earth from an invasion force of gigantic bugs. (MR) Screened in 2006 as part of Science Fiction Lecture Series with Professor Jim Trainer.
25 For 25
To celebrate 25 years on State Street, the 25 For 25 series revisits standout titles from our State Street history, spotlighting films that have lit up our screens since 2001 and reflecting on the Siskel Film Center’s programming legacy. Each selection connects to a past Siskel program, highlighting the Siskel Film Center’s long-standing commitment to diverse and innovative curation.
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu