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Plot Summary

Discover the intricate plot of Solarbabies (1986). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.


In a devastated world where the once vibrant skies are now perpetually grey, the remnants of humanity struggle for survival under the tight control of the Eco Protectorate. This paramilitary group has decimated the planet’s water resources, enforcing an oppressive new world order as unforgiving as the orphanages they’ve established for children turned into mere pawns. Amidst this dismal existence, a rough and exhilarating sport has emerged as a beacon of hope for these wayward kids: a wild combination of lacrosse and roller hockey that injects life into their bleak surroundings.

In this tight-knit band of misfits, we find Jason Patric, the courageous leader, along with his friends Terra, Tug, Rabbit, Metron, and Daniel, a young boy who is deaf. Daniel’s life takes an extraordinary turn when he discovers a mysterious orb hidden in a cave. This remarkable artifact is revealed to be Bodhi, an alien intelligence that grants Daniel the gift of hearing and the extraordinary ability to summon rain indoors—offering a tantalizing glimpse into a world that transcends their dreary reality.

As the news about this wonder spreads like wildfire, the nefarious Darstar, eager to exploit its power, seizes the orb and flees the orphanage on roller skates, with Daniel in hot pursuit—closely followed by the rest of the group. Meanwhile, the E-Police are relentless in their chase, managing to capture Darstar as he clutches Bodhi’s sphere. This sets the stage for a thrilling rescue mission led by the Eco Warriors, a group of battle-hardened outlaws under the guidance of Terra’s long-lost father, Greentree.

After rescuing Darstar, the teens devise a plan to infiltrate the heavily fortified Water Storage Building of the Protectorate. Their roller skating skills allow them to evade security measures effectively. Inside, they expose the E-Police’s dark intention to destroy Bodhi, racing against time to save the alien. In a heart-stopping moment, they witness Bodhi dematerializing, which leads to a sudden restoration of water being released back into their parched world as they make a hasty retreat.

The climax culminates in Bodhi generating a powerful thunderstorm, its energy pulsating through the teens and forging a profound connection among them. After this tumultuous experience, the orphans find themselves on a hillside, enveloped in the newfound freedom as ocean waters dance at their feet.

As the credits roll, we see these orphans joyfully playing in the rejuvenated ocean, with Darstar finally finding his place among them, while Jason Patric and Terra share a poignant moment, their bond deepened by the trials they have endured together.

Timeline

Track the key events of Solarbabies (1986) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.


The Grey Skies

In a devastated world, the skies are perpetually grey, reflecting the desolation that has consumed the planet. Humanity is struggling to survive under the oppressive regime of the Eco Protectorate, which has exerted strict control over the dwindling water resources.

Rise of the Orphanages

The Eco Protectorate establishes orphanages, turning children into mere pawns as they grow up in a harsh environment. These institutions are a grim reminder of the harsh realities faced by the children in this new world order.

Emergence of a Wild Sport

Amidst the despair, a rough and exhilarating sport combining lacrosse and roller hockey emerges as a beacon of hope for the children. This wild game becomes a source of joy and camaraderie, allowing them to escape their bleak existence temporarily.

Daniel Finds the Orb

Daniel, a young boy who is deaf, discovers a mysterious orb hidden in a cave, which he names Bodhi. This extraordinary artifact reveals itself to be an alien intelligence, granting Daniel the gift of hearing and the ability to summon rain indoors.

a cave

The Spread of News

As word of Bodhi spreads, it sparks excitement among the children, offering a glimpse of hope for a better future. However, this news catches the attention of Darstar, who becomes determined to exploit the power of the alien artifact for his own gain.

Darstar's Escape

Darstar seizes the orb and flees from the orphanage on roller skates, creating a thrilling chase as Daniel pursues him. The chase intensifies as the other members of the group join in, united in their mission to reclaim Bodhi.

the orphanage

The E-Police Pursuit

The relentless E-Police pursue Darstar during the chaotic chase, and eventually manage to capture him while he clutches the orb. This development introduces a new urgency to the teens’ plans, as they realize Bodhi is in serious danger.

Eco Warriors Assemble

In a bold move, the Eco Warriors, a group of battle-hardened outlaws, arrive to rescue Darstar and reclaim Bodhi. Their leader is revealed to be Greentree, Terra's long-lost father, who brings his experience and wisdom to guide the mission.

Infiltrating the Water Storage Building

The teens hatch a plan to infiltrate the heavily fortified Water Storage Building of the Eco Protectorate. Utilizing their roller skating skills, they evade security measures, enabling them to sneak inside and gather crucial information.

Water Storage Building

Exposing Evil Intentions

Inside the Water Storage Building, the teens discover the dark intentions of the E-Police to destroy Bodhi. With time running out, they scramble to save the alien intelligence before it's too late.

Water Storage Building

Bodhi's Dematerialization

In a heart-stopping moment, the group witnesses Bodhi dematerializing, producing intense moments of panic and despair. As they retreat, they are taken aback when water begins to flow back into their parched world, a testament to Bodhi's power.

Water Storage Building

The Thunderstorm

The climax of the story unfolds when Bodhi generates a powerful thunderstorm, intertwining its energy with the teens. This connection deeply enhances their bond, highlighting the significance of their friendship amidst the chaos.

The Dance of Ocean Waters

After the dramatic showdown, the orphans find themselves on a hillside, experiencing newfound freedom as ocean waters dance at their feet. The scene symbolizes hope and rejuvenation, signifying a new beginning for the children.

a hillside

Joyful Reunion

As the film draws to a close, the orphans joyfully play in the rejuvenated ocean, embracing their newly found sense of belonging. Darstar finally finds his place among them, showing that everyone deserves a second chance.

A Poignant Moment

In the final moments, Jason Patric and Terra share a deeply poignant moment, reflecting on the trials they have faced together. Their bond solidifies, marking the importance of companionship and resilience in overcoming adversity.

Characters

Meet the characters that bring Solarbabies (1986) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.


Daniel

Daniel is a young boy who faces significant challenges but is ultimately brave and resilient. His discovery of Bodhi sparks a transformation, granting him the gift of hearing and an important role in the group's mission. Despite his deafness, he becomes a vital leader, showcasing incredible determination in pursuing hope and connection.

👦 Boy 🌟 Leader 🛹 Tenacious

Terra

Terra is a fierce and capable warrior, bringing strength and leadership to the group as they navigate their struggles. She is deeply connected to both her friends and her father, adding emotional depth to her character. Terra's resilience and resourcefulness make her instrumental in the quest to save Bodhi and restore balance.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Friend 🚀 Brave 🔥 Determined

Jason Patric

As the courageous leader of the misfit group, he embodies strength and an unwavering commitment to his friends. His character brings a sense of hope and determination as he guides the team through perilous challenges. He nurtures their desire for freedom, driving the narrative towards a warmer conclusion.

👮‍♂️ Leader 💪 Strong 🚀 Hopeful

Setting

Uncover the settings of Solarbabies (1986), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.


Time period

Post-apocalyptic future

Set in a post-apocalyptic future, the narrative unfolds in a society where resources are scarce and children are treated as mere pawns in a battle for water. This chaotic time is marked by oppressive regimes, vibrant underground sports that offer fleeting moments of freedom, and the discovery of extraordinary alien artifacts that promise more than just survival.

Location

Devastated World, Eco Protectorate, Orphanages, Water Storage Building

The movie takes place in a ravaged world, where the skies are perpetually grey and humanity fights for survival. The Eco Protectorate controls the dwindling water resources with an iron fist, while orphanages serve as daunting reminders of the fate met by the children. Among the significant locations is the heavily fortified Water Storage Building, a stronghold of the Protectorate with dark secrets.

🌍 World 🏭 Facility 🏠 Orphanage

Themes

Explore the core themes of Solarbabies (1986). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.


🌧️

Hope

Amidst the bleakness of their existence, the theme of hope shines through the introduction of the alien intelligence, Bodhi. The children's quest to save this entity symbolizes their collective wish to restore balance to their parched world. Through sports and unity, they find resilience and the promise of a brighter future, emphasizing the indomitable spirit of youth.

🤝

Friendship

The bond between the orphaned friends is pivotal to their survival and success. As they work together to save Bodhi, they demonstrate loyalty, courage, and the power of companionship. Their journey not only deepens their connections but also showcases the strength found in unity, drawing them closer against the backdrop of adversity.

⚔️

Rebellion

The movie highlights the struggle against tyranny as the Eco Warriors rise against the oppressive Eco Protectorate. Their determination to rescue Bodhi from the hands of the E-Police exemplifies a larger fight for freedom and autonomy. This theme resonates strongly in a world where control and oppression seem to dictate existence, fueling their desire for change.

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