The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes 1969
Directed by
Robert Butler
Made by
Buena Vista Distribution Company
Plot Summary
As Dexter Riley (Kurt Russell) and his fellow students at Medfield College delve into their studies, they confront an unexpected obstacle: the school’s struggle to procure a vital computer. Their solution emerges through the desire to persuade the affluent businessman A. J. Arno (Cesar Romero) to contribute an outdated yet operational computer to their institution. Unbeknownst to the students, this act of charity is cloaked in deception, as Arno covertly orchestrates a vast illegal gambling ring that exploits the very computer he donates.
Amidst a fierce thunderstorm, Riley’s existence transforms when he experiences an electric shock while fixing a computer component. This unexpected jolt grants him remarkable mathematical prowess, enabling him to absorb and recall extensive information with unparalleled speed and precision. The surge of talent thrusts him into the limelight, and the hopes of Medfield College to secure victory in a celebrated televised quiz tournament, complete with a $100,000 prize, rest solely on Riley’s exceptional intellect.
Harnessing his astonishing capabilities, Riley single-handedly propels Medfield’s team through successive victories against competing schools. As the tournament reaches its peak, a simple phrase—“applejack”—unintentionally triggers a flood of knowledge about Arno’s criminal ventures. This inadvertent discovery initiates a series of events that lead to Riley’s capture at the hands of Arno’s henchmen.
In a bold rescue mission, Riley’s friends cleverly don disguises as house painters to infiltrate the captors’ lair and orchestrate a daring escape for their companion. Although Riley suffers a concussion during this intense ordeal, it gradually diminishes his extraordinary abilities, bringing him back to a more ordinary state. Meanwhile, Schuyler (William Schallert) plays a crucial role in accurately answering the final challenge of the tournament: “A small Midwest city is located exactly on an area designated as the geographic center of the United States. For 10 points and $100,000, can you tell us the name of that city?” The correct answer, “Lebanon, Kansas,” secures Medfield College’s victory and the coveted prize.
As Arno and his gang attempt to make a getaway from the TV studio, their plans unravel when they collide with a police vehicle, leading to their eventual capture and the dismantling of their nefarious operations.
Timeline
Students Face a Challenge
Dexter Riley and his classmates at Medfield College encounter a significant hurdle as they struggle to acquire a vital computer for their studies. This need sparks the idea to seek help from wealthy businessman A. J. Arno.
The Offer from A. J. Arno
In an attempt to resolve their dilemma, the students persuade A. J. Arno to donate an outdated computer to their college. However, unbeknownst to them, this simple act is laced with ulterior motives linked to Arno's gambling operations.
Electric Shock Transforms Dexter
During a storm, Dexter is shocked while working on a computer, which magically enhances his mathematical abilities. This electrical jolt allows him to absorb and retain vast amounts of information quickly and accurately.
Medfield's Quiz Tournament
With his newfound talent, Dexter leads his college's team in a high-stakes televised quiz tournament. The entire college's hopes hinge on his exceptional intellect for securing the coveted $100,000 prize.
Uncovering Arno's Secrets
As the quiz tournament progresses, Dexter accidentally triggers the phrase 'applejack,' prompting a surge of knowledge about Arno's illicit gambling activities. This revelation sets off a chain of events that puts him in grave danger.
Dexter's Capture
Following the accidental revelation about Arno, Dexter is captured by the businessman’s henchmen. The students quickly realize the implications of their discovery, endangering their safety and the tournament's prospects.
Friends Come to the Rescue
Determined not to let Dexter down, his friends devise a clever plan to rescue him. Disguised as house painters, they infiltrate the captors’ hideout, showcasing their bravery and loyalty to their friend.
The Daring Escape
In a thrilling escape, Dexter's friends manage to get him out of captivity. Despite sustaining a concussion during the rescue, Dexter realizes that his extraordinary abilities are starting to fade.
Final Challenge at the Tournament
With Dexter less capable after his head injury, Schuyler steps in to answer the tournament's final challenge. This crucial moment will determine the outcome of the competition and the fate of Medfield College.
Victory for Medfield College
Schuyler answers correctly, stating 'Lebanon, Kansas,' which is the answer to the final question. This response secures the victory for Medfield College, earning them the $100,000 prize.
Arno's Downfall
As Arno attempts to escape after the tournament, chaos ensues when his getaway vehicle crashes into a police car. This unexpected incident leads to Arno's arrest and the suspension of his illegal operations.
Celebration at Medfield College
Following their triumph, the students at Medfield College celebrate their victory and the successful defeat of Arno. Dexter and his friends rejoice in both their academic success and the bond they share.
Characters
Dexter Riley
Dexter Riley is a resourceful and ambitious student whose life changes dramatically after gaining extraordinary mathematical abilities from an electrical shock. His intelligence propels Medfield College's team to success but also puts him in peril as he uncovers the truth behind Arno's deceit. Despite the challenges, his determination and leadership shine through.
A. J. Arno
A. J. Arno is a charismatic yet unscrupulous businessman who camouflages his criminal activities under the guise of philanthropy. His manipulation and greed drive the plot's conflict, illustrating the darker side of ambition. Arno's cunning nature serves as a formidable obstacle to Dexter and his friends.
Schuyler
Schuyler is a supportive friend to Dexter and plays a crucial role in the quiz tournament's final challenge. His quick thinking and knowledge contribute significantly to the team's victory. Schuyler exemplifies loyalty and intellect, proving he’s not just a side character but essential to the plot's resolution.
Setting
Time period
The movie is set in a contemporary period where technology started to play a crucial role in education and daily life. This era reflects a growing dependence on computers, making the storyline relevant to the audience as it showcases the intersection of technology and education.
Location
Medfield College, United States
Medfield College is an academic institution known for fostering innovative and driven students. It serves as the backdrop for students like Dexter Riley as they navigate challenges in their quest for knowledge and success. The story also highlights a small town, Lebanon, Kansas, which is recognized as the geographic center of the United States.
Themes
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Technology
The impact of technology on education is a central theme in the movie. Dexter's journey emphasizes how technological advancements can reshape and elevate learning experiences. The plot also explores the double-edged sword of technology, exemplified by the misuse of a computer for illegal activities.
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Friendship
Friendship plays a vital role as Dexter's comrades unite to rescue him from danger. Their loyalty and teamwork underscore the importance of support and collaboration among friends during challenging times. This theme highlights the strength found in camaraderie and shared goals.
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Greed
The theme of greed is embodied by the character A. J. Arno, whose desire for wealth leads to criminal activities that endanger others. The contrast between Arno's motivations and the students’ aspiration for academic achievement reveals the potential consequences of greed over integrity.
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