Innerspace Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A tiny Dennis Quaid yells at Martin Short from inside his body while bad guys try to steal the shrink ray and Meg Ryan tries to figure out what’s going on, leading to a very weird love triangle.

🍿 Innerspace: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Experiment

Lt. Tuck Pendleton, a reckless Navy pilot, volunteers for a top-secret miniaturization experiment. He’s placed inside a submersible pod and shrunk to microscopic size, intended for injection into a rabbit. The experiment is designed to revolutionize medical technology, offering unprecedented access to the human body.

Sabotage and Accidental Injection

A rival organization, led by the ruthless Victor Scrimshaw, sabotages the experiment to steal the miniaturization technology. As the lab is attacked, scientist Ozzie Wexler escapes with the syringe containing the miniaturized Tuck. During a frantic chase, Ozzie is shot and injects Tuck into Jack Putter, a hypochondriac grocery clerk.

Inside Jack Putter

Tuck, now adrift inside Jack’s body, establishes contact with his unwitting host through Jack’s optic nerve and inner ear. He explains the situation and enlists Jack’s help to retrieve a stolen microchip necessary for reversing the miniaturization process. They must act quickly, as Tuck’s oxygen supply is rapidly depleting.

Teamwork and Transformation

Jack and Tuck, an unlikely duo, team up with Tuck’s ex-girlfriend, Lydia Maxwell, a resourceful reporter. Together, they navigate dangerous situations, using Tuck’s knowledge and Jack’s newfound courage. In a daring move, Tuck uses the pod’s technology to alter Jack’s face, temporarily transforming him into a known associate of the villains.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Lt. Tuck Pendleton (Dennis Quaid): A cocky Navy pilot who gets miniaturized and accidentally injected into an unsuspecting store clerk.
• Jack Putter (Martin Short): A hypochondriac store clerk who becomes the unwilling host to a miniaturized pilot and is forced to become a hero.
• Lydia Maxwell (Meg Ryan): A determined reporter and Tuck’s estranged girlfriend who aids in the effort to rescue him.
• Victor Scrimshaw (Kevin McCarthy): The ruthless mastermind seeking to steal the miniaturization technology for his own nefarious purposes.
• Mr. Igoe (Vernon Wells): Scrimshaw’s menacing and relentless henchman who pursues Jack and Lydia.
• The Cowboy (Robert Picardo): A shady tech dealer involved in acquiring the miniaturization technology who is hired by Scrimshaw.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Lt. Tuck Pendleton: “I’m right here, INSIDE you INSIDE YOUR BODY!” – Tuck exclaims this in disbelief when Jack cannot comprehend that he is literally inside him.
• Jack Putter: “Oh God! Somebody help me! I’M POSSESSED!” – Jack’s initial reaction upon hearing Tuck’s voice inside his head, thinking he’s been possessed by a demon.
• Lt. Tuck Pendleton: “Dip, dip, dip all you like. Nothin’s gonna fit ya.” – Tuck says this to Jack while he’s trying on different clothes in Tuck’s apartment.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $27,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $25,893,810
• Worldwide Gross: $25,893,810

💥 Innerspace Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved Innerspace when I first saw it as a kid! The idea of someone being shrunk down and exploring the human body was mind-blowing. Martin Short’s hilarious reactions to having Dennis Quaid inside him were priceless. I remember being on the edge of my seat during the chase scenes and laughing out loud at the quirky humor. It’s a movie that brings back so many nostalgic memories. Highly recommend it!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of 80s sci-fi comedies”
  • “Those who enjoy buddy cop movies with a twist”
  • “Viewers who appreciate practical special effects”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild language”
  • “Some violent action sequences”
  • “Suggestive humor”

Professional Reviews

• Roger Ebert: “Innerspace is a delightful mix of science fiction and comedy, elevated by the performances of Quaid and Short. The visual effects are groundbreaking, seamlessly blending the fantastical with the believable. Dante strikes a perfect balance between humor and suspense, making this a thrilling ride for audiences of all ages. A smart, entertaining film that deserves its place among the classics of the ’80s.
• Variety: “Joe Dante’s Innerspace is a visual feast, showcasing innovative special effects that bring the internal world of the human body to life. The chemistry between Quaid and Short is undeniable, driving the film’s comedic heart. Though the plot is convoluted, the film’s energy and charm make it an enjoyable experience. A creative and imaginative adventure that stands out in the sci-fi genre.
• Empire Magazine: “Innerspace is a wildly inventive and entertaining film that blends science fiction, comedy, and action with remarkable skill. Quaid and Short deliver outstanding performances, and the special effects are nothing short of spectacular. Joe Dante’s direction is sharp and witty, making this a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable movie experience. A must-see for fans of ’80s sci-fi.

Audience Reactions

The visual effects were groundbreaking and still hold up surprisingly well.: Viewers consistently praise the unique blend of sci-fi, comedy, and action that keeps the movie engaging from start to finish.

Martin Short’s comedic performance is a major highlight for many fans.: Many appreciate the chemistry between Dennis Quaid and Martin Short, which makes the unlikely pairing incredibly entertaining.

Overall Consensus: Innerspace is a beloved sci-fi comedy from the ’80s, praised for its innovative visual effects, strong performances, and unique blend of genres.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Visual Effects)- 1988

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Steven Spielberg was heavily involved as an executive producer through Amblin Entertainment, influencing casting and creative decisions.”
• “John Hora, Joe Dante’s cinematographer on all of his movies, was cast as Ozzie after Spielberg suggested him for the role.”
• “The special effects were groundbreaking for their time, winning the film an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects.”
• “The movie is inspired by the 1966 film ‘Fantastic Voyage,’ however, ‘Innerspace’ adopts a more comedic tone.”

🖥️ How to Watch Innerspace?

Innerspace is currently available for rent or purchase on various platforms. You can find it on Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu, and YouTube. Check your local listings for availability on cable or satellite services. Physical copies on Blu-ray and DVD can be purchased through retailers like Amazon and major stores.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Innerspace, you might like these similar films:

• Fantastic Voyage (1966): The original ‘shrinking’ adventure, directly inspiring Innerspace’s core concept.
• Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989): Shares the theme of miniaturization and its impact on ordinary people.
• All of Me (1984): A comedy where one person’s consciousness inhabits another’s body, leading to humorous situations.
• Ant-Man (2015): A modern superhero movie that uses shrinking technology as a key element.
• Osmosis Jones (2001): Takes place entirely inside a human body, battling the dangers of infection and sickness.

🛒 Innerspace Related Products

• Innerspace (Blu-ray): High-definition Blu-ray edition of Innerspace, featuring enhanced visual and audio quality, plus bonus content such as behind-the-scenes footage and interviews.
• Innerspace Movie Poster: A high-quality reproduction of the original Innerspace movie poster, perfect for decorating a home theater or adding to a movie memorabilia collection. Show off your love for this ’80s classic with this nostalgic piece.
• Innerspace: The Board Game: A strategic board game where players navigate the human body to complete missions and outwit rivals. Featuring detailed miniatures and exciting gameplay mechanics.
• Innerspace T-Shirt: Officially licensed Innerspace t-shirt featuring iconic imagery from the movie. Made from comfortable, high-quality materials. Available in various sizes.

🎧 Soundtrack

Innerspace features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Twistin’ the Night Away” – performed by Sam Cooke (Performed by Rod Stewart)
• “Main Title” – performed by Jerry Goldsmith
• “Jack B. Nimble” – performed by Jerry Goldsmith

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Innerspace (1987) – The Best Movie You Never Saw

Ever heard of ‘Innerspace’? JoBlo calls it ‘The Best Movie You Never Saw,’ and after watching this breakdown, I’m convinced they’re right! It’s a wild ride of sci-fi and comedy that you seriously need to check out.

Innerspace – Cowboy/Jack Switcheroo

Remember that crazy scene where Martin Short’s face gets all messed up? This is IT! It’s hilarious and shows off the movie’s bonkers special effects. You gotta see it!

✨ Rate