The story is set in a dystopian future where society has become heavily reliant on advanced technology, including lifelike android companions. Sam Treadwell (played by David Andrews) is a man living in this world who owns a “Cherry 2000,” a state-of-the-art android model designed to be the perfect wife. When Cherry (played by Pamela Gidley) malfunctions after a romantic encounter, Sam is devastated. Her internal circuitry is fried, and replacing her is not as easy as going to the local store.

In order to get his beloved Cherry back, Sam embarks on a dangerous mission to retrieve a replacement model from a restricted, lawless zone known as “Zone 7.” This wasteland is inhabited by violent gangs and ruled by a charismatic but psychotic warlord, Lester (played by Tim Thomerson). Realizing he can’t navigate the treacherous territory on his own, Sam hires E. Johnson (played by Melanie Griffith), a tough and capable tracker who specializes in guiding people through the hazardous wastelands.

As the pair journey through the dangerous desert landscapes, Sam begins to realize that the idealized perfection of his robotic companion might not compare to the real, unpredictable human connection he develops with Johnson. What begins as a quest for a robot replacement turns into a deeper exploration of what it means to truly love and connect with another person.

“Cherry 2000” stands out for its retro-futuristic aesthetic, blending 80s action-film sensibilities with a post-apocalyptic world that feels like a mix of Mad Max and Blade Runner. The stark desert settings and the wild, anarchic atmosphere of Zone 7 create an exciting backdrop for the film’s action sequences. However, it’s the quirky tone and its exploration of technology’s impact on love and relationships that make it more than just another action movie.

The film is both a critique and a parody of the idea of the “perfect partner” being something that can be manufactured or programmed. Cherry, the robot wife, is portrayed as the embodiment of male fantasy—obedient, attractive, and devoted—yet ultimately hollow and limited. As Sam’s relationship with Johnson deepens, the film subtly comments on the value of human emotions, imperfections, and unpredictability, qualities that no machine can truly replicate.

Melanie Griffith shines as the fearless, tough-talking E. Johnson, a strong contrast to the passive, idealized Cherry. Johnson’s character is grounded and real, and her chemistry with Sam grows throughout the film, creating a dynamic that mixes action, romance, and humor. David Andrews, in his role as Sam, portrays a man who is initially fixated on recapturing his past but slowly learns to embrace the possibility of new, genuine connections.

Though “Cherry 2000” did not fare well at the box office and was delayed in its release, it has since become a cult classic thanks to its unique mix of adventure, satire, and heartfelt romance. The film’s quirky tone, combined with its action-packed sequences and philosophical undertones about love and technology, make it a memorable and entertaining ride.

In conclusion, “Cherry 2000” (1987) is a fun and quirky sci-fi adventure that explores themes of love, technology, and human connection in a post-apocalyptic world. Its blend of action, humor, and a surprisingly heartfelt message about the value of human relationships makes it a standout in the realm of 80s sci-fi films. Fans of offbeat, retro-futuristic movies will find “Cherry 2000” an enjoyable and thought-provoking experience.