The Terminal Man

Watch The Terminal Man

"Harry Benson is a brilliant computer scientist. For three minutes a day, he is violently homicidal."
  • PG
  • 1974
  • 1 hr 47 min
  • 5.6  (2,516)
  • 41

The Terminal Man is a 1974 science-fiction thriller directed by Mike Hodges and based on a novel by Michael Crichton. The movie is set in Los Angeles and follows the story of Harry Benson, a brilliant computer scientist who suffers from a debilitating condition that causes him uncontrollable epileptic seizures. Harry Benson, played by George Segal, is a genius who works at a cutting-edge computer research institute. He is also a frequent patient at a local hospital due to his epilepsy. Despite the best efforts of his doctors, Benson's condition is becoming more severe and harder to control. He becomes increasingly paranoid that his seizures will cause him to harm himself or others.

In an attempt to cure Benson's condition, the doctors devise an experimental surgery that implants a microcomputer in his brain. The device is intended to monitor Benson's brain activity and prevent seizures by electrically stimulating his brain. However, things quickly go awry when Benson's mind begins to adapt to the computer's programming, leading to a dangerous feedback loop.

As a result, Benson becomes increasingly unstable and prone to violent outbursts. He sets out on a mission to seek revenge against those he feels have wronged him, including his ex-wife and the doctors who implanted the computer in his brain. Along the way, he meets a woman named Dr. Janet Ross, played by Joan Hackett, who becomes his unlikely ally.

Ross is a psychiatrist who becomes fascinated by Benson's case after witnessing his initial surgery. She develops a rapport with him and begins to understand his motivations, giving her insight into how to help him. Ross becomes Benson's only hope as he spirals out of control, and things come to a head in a tense climax that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats.

The Terminal Man is a compelling drama that explores themes of technology, psychology, and morality. It offers an insightful commentary on the ethical implications of using technology to control human behavior while also depicting a thrilling and suspenseful story. George Segal's performance as Harry Benson is particularly noteworthy, as he portrays a character who is at once sympathetic and terrifying.

The movie also features excellent supporting performances from Richard Dysart as Dr. John Ellis, a respected neurosurgeon who performs Benson's initial operation, and Donald Moffat as Dr. Arthur McPherson, an expert in artificial intelligence who develops the computer implanted in Benson's brain.

Overall, The Terminal Man is a thought-provoking and thrilling movie that remains relevant today. It raises important questions about the intersection of technology and humanity, and the responsibilities that come with wielding the power to manipulate and control the mind.

The Terminal Man is a 1974 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6 and a MetaScore of 41.

The Terminal Man
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Where to Watch The Terminal Man
The Terminal Man is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Apple TV, Amazon and Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent The Terminal Man for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    1974
  • MPAA Rating
    PG
  • Runtime
    1 hr 47 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    5.6  (2,516)
  • Metascore
    41
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