Zapped! 1982
"They're getting a little behind in their classwork."
In this zany late-night sci-fi comedy classic from 1982, director Robert J. Rosenthal delivers a delightfully absurd high-school romp that feels like a spiritual cousin to *WarGames* and *The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes*.
Director: Robert J. Rosenthal
Cast
Scott Baio
Barney Springboro
Willie Aames
Peyton
Robert Mandan
Walter Johnson
Felice Schachter
Bernadette
Scatman Crothers
Dexter Jones
Roger Bowen
Mr. Springboro
Mews Small
Mrs. Springboro
Greg Bradford
Robert Wolcott
Hilary Beane
Corrine Updike
Sue Ane Langdon
Rose Burnhart
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zapped! (1982) about?
Two high-school pals accidentally invent a formula that grants telekinetic powers, turning Barney's mundane life into a whirlwind of accidental mischief. With mice conducting invisible experiments and a crush on the girl next door, Barney's new abilities spark a series of comedic disasters.
Who directed Zapped!?
Robert J. Rosenthal helmed this quirky comedy, blending lighthearted teen drama with early-'80s sci-fi flair.
Who stars in Zapped!?
Scott Baio and Willie Aames headline the cast, with Robert Mandan, Felice Schachter, and Scatman Crothers rounding out the ensemble.
Is Zapped! (1982) worth watching?
While not a critical darling, Zapped! delivers undeniable charm for fans of retro sci-fi comedies. Its blend of teen angst, goofy special effects, and infectious energy makes it a nostalgic pick—perfect for a lazy afternoon or a themed movie night.
How long is Zapped!?
The film runs 98 minutes, or roughly an hour and a half of nonstop laughs and telekinetic shenanigans.
🎥 Trailer
About Zapped! (1982) — A Teen Telekinesis Comedy Classic Every '80s Fan Should See
In this zany late-night sci-fi comedy classic from 1982, director Robert J. Rosenthal delivers a delightfully absurd high-school romp that feels like a spiritual cousin to *WarGames* and *The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes*. Scott Baio and Willie Aames headline as Peyton and Barney, two carefree students whose after-school science project takes a bizarre turn when Barney stumbles upon a telekinetic formula while tinkering with lab mice. Soon, Barney's newfound ability to move objects with his mind turns the classroom—and his love life—into a playground of unpredictable chaos, blending coming-of-age humor with lighthearted paranormal shenanigans. The film drips with the neon-soaked optimism of early-'80s family entertainment, where mischief and mad science collide over soda shop banter and locker-room pranks.
Zapped! (1982) balances slapstick energy with a surprisingly earnest teen heart, positioning Barney's accidental superpowers as a metaphor for the awkward power of adolescence itself. Between telekinetic food fights and romantic misadventures, the movie crafts a retro-futurist vibe that's equal parts nostalgic and timeless, making it a cult favorite for sci-fi comedy fans who crave charm over sophistication.
