12 Clever Films Presented as Silly Movies

      These films may appear to be silly, but they are, in fact, quite clever. Do you think it's simple to craft something substantive while masking it as frivolous? It's not easy — in fact, it’s often more challenging than simply presenting something that seems intelligent. Let us illustrate this with these 11 clever films that are disguised as foolish ones.

      **Starship Troopers (1997)**

      Buena Vista International

      When it was first released, critics overlooked the fact that *Starship Troopers* serves as a satire of nationalistic warmongering.

      For instance, The New York Times' Janet Maslin dismissively remarked, “Where exactly are the hordes of moviegoers who will exclaim: 'Great idea! Let’s go see the one about the cute young co-ed army and the big bugs from space?'”

      You could maybe forgive them for not realizing Paul Verhoeven was delivering a satire, except that nearly all his films, dating back to *Robocop*, include significant doses of satire and social commentary. (Even the often-criticized *Showgirls*.)

      When you view it correctly — that is, understanding that everyone involved is part of the joke — *Starship Troopers* becomes the ultimate movie about a charming co-ed army and extraterrestrial insects. However, it is also an insightful film about militarism and patriotism, reminiscent of *Dr. Strangelove*.

      **The Terminator (1984)**

      Orion – Credit: C/O

      James Cameron aimed to merge high-concept science fiction with the thrill and DIY spirit of a Roger Corman film, resulting in a timeless classic.

      *The Terminator* captivates viewers with its violence and surprises, provoking thoughts about the potential for robot dominance long after the credits roll. Its time travel concept — where everything is a circle — ranks among the most intriguing in cinema. And to top it off, it carries biblical undertones.

      Anyone who entered the ’80s believing Arnold Schwarzenegger was all muscle without intellect had to reconsider by the decade's end: the actor made some wise role choices, not only enhancing his brand but also choosing films that stimulate thought long after the action scenes and catchphrases faded away.

      **Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997)**

      New Line Cinema

      Another absurd premise: a swinging ’60s secret agent is defrosted in the more reserved ’90s. Yet one of writer-star Mike Myers’ cleverest techniques is finding humor in the contrast between what you expect his characters to understand and their actual knowledge.

      The *Austin Powers* films delight in affectionately lampooning Bond movie clichés — the villain revealing his entire plan, the puns, the expendable henchmen — but Austin ultimately surprises you with his unexpected sensitivity and decency.

      Once, during the height of #MeToo, we attended a large outdoor screening of this film with primarily millennial viewers. When Vanessa (Elizabeth Hurley) attempted to initiate intimacy with Austin, and he insisted she was too intoxicated, Austin “Danger” Powers received an extended applause break.

      **Top Secret (1984)**

      Paramount Pictures – Credit: Paramount

      *Top Secret* — from the creators of *Airplane!* — flopped but felt like a pure exercise in absurdity: it merges a parody of an Elvis film with a parody of war films, complete with an extended spoof of *Blue Lagoon*.

      Yet it is also an affectionate tribute to years of cinematic techniques, featuring astonishing set pieces, including a scene shot flawlessly in reverse before the film intentionally undermines its own impressive staging.

      We also want to highlight a hilariously awesome underwater bar fight that necessitated the actors holding their breath for significant durations.

      But the visual tricks are only part of its cleverness. It also includes unexpected jokes such as: “My uncle was born in America. But he was one of the lucky ones. He managed to escape in a balloon during the Jimmy Carter presidency.”

      **The Running Man (1987)**

      TriStar Pictures – Credit: C/O

      Here's another instance of Arnold Schwarzenegger choosing a spot-on role.

      Consider *The Running Man*, adapted from a Stephen King tale that astutely foresaw the emergence of reality TV competitions. Schwarzenegger plays Ben Richards, a scapegoated helicopter pilot forced to engage in violent confrontations with cartoonish adversaries to win a grim game show titled *The Running Man*.

      Numerous clever details are present here — including the casting of actual game show host Richard Dawson as the show’s presenter, Damon Killian — but the film's sharpest aspect is how Ben must not only defeat his foes but also conquer a media battle against the oppressive regime behind the game.

      **Robocop (1987)**

      Orion – Credit: C/O

      If you view Paul Verhoeven’s *Robocop* as a mere silly action film about a robotic law enforcer seeking vengeance against criminals