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A Shock to the System (1990)

1990 • 1h 31m • Comedy, Crime • R
On October 1, 2026
#17063
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CinemaSerf on A Shock to the System

7/10 · Aug 26, 2023

I found this to be quite entertaining. The character of "Graham," portrayed by Michael Caine, becomes rather frustrated when passed over for a promotion. Upon returning home, he discovers his troubles are only beginning – his wife, “Leslie” (Swoosie Kurtz), constantly finds fault with him! Faced with this situation, he notices that the electrical wiring in their house is faulty and, while attempting to fix it, receives a minor electric shock. Suddenly, an idea strikes him: he could simply remove those who cause him problems or irritation from his life. What follows is a sequence of carefully planned, seemingly accidental events designed to rid himself of his wife and secure the coveted corner office at work. Will he manage to avoid detection? Caine’s performance is remarkable; it evokes empathy for his character – I certainly found myself rooting for him as his schemes began drawing unwanted attention, particularly from an insurance company inspector investigating their home's electrical system. The film breezes through its 90-minute runtime thanks to solid performances from Caine, Elizabeth McGovern, who isn’t usually very memorable, Kurtz, and Peter Riegert, playing the unpleasant corporate type who took Graham’s rightful place. It doesn’t elicit constant laughter, but it does bring a smile to your face and prompts you to consider how far you might go if given the chance.

Source on TMDB