The Cable Guy Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Lonely cable installer gives new meaning to “premium package” by becoming one man’s clingy, psychotic nightmare, all because of $50 and the irresistible allure of free HBO.

🍿 The Cable Guy: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Moving In and Meeting Chip

Steven Kovacs, an architect, moves into a new apartment after a failed marriage proposal. Seeking to enhance his viewing experience, he bribes cable installer Chip Douglas for access to premium channels. This seemingly harmless act sets off a chain of bizarre and increasingly disturbing events as Chip takes Steven’s casual interest in friendship to an extreme.

Chip’s Obsessive Friendship

Chip’s attempts at friendship become increasingly intrusive and destructive. He crashes Steven’s basketball game, installs an expensive home theater system, and even hires a prostitute for Steven. These over-the-top gestures push Steven away, but Chip’s fragile ego can’t handle rejection, leading to a series of vengeful acts. The plot weaves dark comedy with thriller elements, showcasing the dangers of unchecked obsession.

Revenge and Escalation

Rejected and hurt, Chip retaliates by getting Steven arrested for possession of stolen property and sabotaging his career. The situation escalates, demonstrating Chip’s willingness to manipulate and control those around him to maintain his distorted version of friendship. As Chip’s behavior becomes more erratic, Steven realizes the true extent of the danger he’s in.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• The Cable Guy (Chip Douglas) (Jim Carrey): A lonely and obsessive cable installer who craves friendship and becomes a dangerous stalker when rejected.
• Steven M. Kovacs (Matthew Broderick): An architect who moves into a new apartment after a failed proposal and becomes the target of the Cable Guy’s unwanted attention.
• Robin Harris (Leslie Mann): Steven’s ex-girlfriend who finds herself caught between Steven and the Cable Guy’s escalating obsession.
• Rick (Jack Black): Steven’s friend who advises him to bribe the cable guy and later investigates Chip’s background.
• Sam Sweet (Ben Stiller): A former child star on trial for murdering his brother, whose case parallels the movie’s themes of media influence.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Chip Douglas: “I’m thinking about becoming a Buddhist. They’re gonna give me a cool name, like ‘Crash’ or ‘Spike’.” – Chip expresses his desire to find meaning and belonging, highlighting his eccentric personality and search for identity.
• Chip Douglas: “The future is now! Soon every American home will integrate their television, phone and computer. You’ll be able to visit the Louvre on one channel, or watch female wrestling on another.” – Chip enthusiastically describes his vision of interconnected media, reflecting the film’s commentary on technology’s impact.
• Chip Douglas: “I just want to be liked!” – Chip’s desperate plea reveals his underlying loneliness and desire for connection, driving his obsessive behavior.
• Chip Douglas: “Thank you for the subscription.” – Chip says this line with sinister intent while being hauled away by paramedics, showing he is already latching onto his new ‘buddy’, and he will never change.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $47,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $60,240,295
• Worldwide Gross: $102,825,796

💥 The Cable Guy Reviews

Personal Review

I remember watching “The Cable Guy” when it first came out and being so confused. It wasn’t the Jim Carrey I expected from “Ace Ventura.” But over the years, I’ve grown to appreciate the dark humor and the social commentary about our obsession with TV. The Medieval Times scene is still hilarious, and the film’s ending is genuinely unsettling. It’s definitely a cult classic that deserves a second look, but if you like the movie from start to finish, you’re just like the Cable Guy.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of dark comedies”
  • “Jim Carrey fans interested in his more experimental roles”
  • “Viewers who appreciate satire on media and modern society”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Stalking”
  • “Violence”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Suggestive content”

Professional Reviews

• Roger Ebert: “”The Cable Guy” tries to be dark and edgy, but it often feels forced. Carrey’s performance is undeniably committed, but the script struggles to balance the humor and the unsettling themes. It’s a film with potential that ultimately doesn’t quite deliver.
• Janet Maslin: “Ben Stiller directs with an eye for satire, but the film veers wildly in tone. Carrey is, as always, a force to be reckoned with, but his manic energy doesn’t always serve the story. It’s a bold and often uncomfortable comedy, but one that might leave you scratching your head.

Audience Reactions

Jim Carrey’s performance as the Cable Guy is both hilarious and terrifying.: Viewers are divided: some praise the film’s dark humor, while others find it too uncomfortable.

The Medieval Times scene is considered one of the most memorable and funny in the movie.: Most viewers agree that Ben Stiller’s direction and the supporting cast add to the film’s overall quality.

Overall Consensus: “The Cable Guy” is a polarizing film. It’s a dark comedy that many find either brilliant or deeply unsettling, with Jim Carrey’s performance being a major point of contention.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Jim Carrey was paid $20 million for his role, which was considered a huge sum at the time, making him one of the highest-paid comedy actors.”
• “Ben Stiller appears in a dual role as both the director and a character in the film, adding a layer of meta-commentary.”
• “The film features several cameos from well-known actors and comedians, including Jack Black, Owen Wilson, Janeane Garofalo, and Andy Dick.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Cable Guy?

The Cable Guy is available for purchase or rental on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Check local listings for cable and streaming availability, as options may vary by region. Consider purchasing the DVD or Blu-ray for a physical copy and potential bonus content.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Cable Guy, you might like these similar films:

• King of Comedy (1982): Explores themes of obsession and the desperate pursuit of fame, mirroring Chip’s desire for connection and recognition.
• Fatal Attraction (1987): Features a character with a strong initial positive connection that quickly turns obsessive and destructive, similar to Chip and Steven’s relationship.
• Obsessed (2009): A modern thriller focusing on workplace obsession and the unraveling of a relationship, sharing themes of stalking and unwanted intrusion with a contemporary perspective.
• You’ve Got Mail (1998): A relationship that starts out with a strong initial connection, that quickly turns obsessive and destructive.

🛒 The Cable Guy Related Products

• The Cable Guy (Collector’s Edition) [Blu-ray]: Limited edition Blu-ray featuring deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes footage, and commentary from Ben Stiller and Judd Apatow. A must-have for die-hard fans!
• Cable Guy Movie Poster: High-quality print of the original movie poster. Great for decorating home theaters or any fan’s living space, show off your love for this 90s classic.
• Cable Guy T-Shirt: T-shirt featuring iconic quotes or images from the movie. Available in various sizes and colors. Show that your ‘the special customer’.
• Jim Carrey: Ace Ventura to Cable Guy: Digital Documentary exploring Jim Carrey’s transition from slapstick comedies to more diverse roles, including The Cable Guy. Get a closer look at Jim Carrey’s career evolution and the making of The Cable Guy.

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “Leave Me Alone” – performed by Jerry Cantrell
• “Standing Outside A Broken Phone Booth With Money In My Hand” – performed by Primitive Radio Gods
• “I’m SuperMan” – performed by R.E.M

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Why Does Everyone Hate The Cable Guy?

Ever wonder why ‘The Cable Guy’ received such mixed reviews? This in-depth analysis delves into the film’s controversial elements and provides a fresh perspective on its comedic value. Get ready for a deep dive into one of Jim Carrey’s most polarizing performances.

CHRIS FARLEY in the LOST VERSION of “The Cable Guy”

Imagine ‘The Cable Guy’ with Chris Farley in the lead role! This captivating video explores the fascinating ‘what if’ scenario, delving into the casting process and how it would have impacted the film’s dynamic. Get ready for a wild ride into an alternate cinematic universe.

The Art of THE CABLE GUY: Cinema’s Misunderstood Satire

Discover the hidden layers of ‘The Cable Guy’ in this insightful analysis. This video unpacks the film’s themes, artistic choices, and why it’s time to reassess its place in cinematic satire. Get ready to see this cult classic in a whole new light.

Did You Miss the Most Shocking Film in Years?

Prepare to be surprised by this unconventional review of ‘The Cable Guy.’ This video delves into the film’s provocative themes, challenging viewers to rethink their initial impressions. Get ready for a stimulating discussion that might just change your mind about this cinematic enigma.

✨ Rate