The best cyberpunk trilogy ever made is finally free to stream ‣ Diverse Daily

Prophetically, 80s sci-fi acknowledges much of what we’re actually experiencing in the modern age. No, I’m not talking about machines taking over, dystopian futuristic cities, or flying cars. I’m referring to the notion that megacorporations leverage technology for the sake of profit and prowess. Cyberpunk sci-fi is rooted in the idea of a dystopian future where the monetary power from unchecked capitalism can lead to catastrophic results for society. This theme is evident in Terminator, Blade Runner, Total Recall, and other major sci-fi movies from that era. But perhaps one of the most well-known trilogies in the cyberpunk genre is that of RoboCop.

The premise is simple: part man, part robot, complete justice. It’s a campy notion on the surface, but the films aren’t for the faint of heart. There’s a persistent subtext about the nature of what it means to be human despite trauma, tragedy, and prevailing criminality and evil in the world. Blind ambition can often destroy human life, and RoboCop portrays this violently. It’s truly a striking film property that is worth the attention of any modern film connoisseur. If you’ve never had the opportunity to see the film series or would simply like a chance to revisit a classic, you can do so now for free.

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Originals: Yes

Here’s where you can view the entire RoboCop trilogy

You can even catch a viewing of the maligned reboot if you’re up for it

Thankfully, ad-supported free live TV and on-demand models have taken off. In an age of increasingly pricey subscription services, these FAST (free ad-supported streaming TV) and free on-demand services offer consumers a bit of respite. RoboCop, RoboCop 2, and RoboCop 3 can all be streamed for free on The Roku Channel as of this month. Just head on over to the app or website and punch “RoboCop” into the search field. It’s as easy as that. Keep in mind that with free on-demand, you will have to tolerate intermittent commercial breaks. But it’s a small price to pay for a free service. The Roku Channel also has the 2014 RoboCop reboot starring Joel Kinnaman in the titular role. While this film isn’t as beloved by fans and manages to scale down the violent content from the classic series, it’s still an entertaining watch.

While you’re over at The Roku Channel and checking out cyberpunk films, be advised that The Terminator (1984) is also available to watch for free on the service. Hot off the cyborg action of RoboCop, relive James Cameron’s dark take on a killer AI bent on destroying humanity. If that hits too close to home, given our modern dalliance with AI as an emerging super technology, I’d understand. But just be aware that the film is there for fans of the genre.

The RoboCop trilogy remains essential cyberpunk sci-fi

Every sci-fi lover, new and old, should experience this film series

RoboCop receiving diagnostic in RoboCop (1987)

The 1987 film stars Peter Weller as the iconic RoboCop. The movie follows Weller’s character, Alex Murphy, as a police officer who is viciously murdered by a gang. After his grisly death, he is later revived by Omni Consumer Products as a cyborg and becomes a patented product deployed for the Detroit police force. While Murphy (aka RoboCop) initially operates like any well-programmed machine, he begins to recall pieces of his human life. The film deals with a lot of heavy subjects, including a harsh economy on the brink of collapse and its parallel to the growing criminal element. RoboCop is a thrilling film that kicks off a notable trilogy.

RoboCop 2 and 3 expand on the continued decline of this dystopian Detroit as RoboCop and the police force deal with an even more serious threat. The third film then introduces citizen displacement and enters authoritarian territory as companies like Omni Consumer Products publicly embrace corruption. It’s a harrowing story with dark real-world implications. But at its core, it’s a wildly entertaining ride. With the recent report that Amazon Prime Video has picked up the property for a RoboCop series (reboot), it’s a good time to discover the cyborg’s origins. And thanks to The Roku Channel, you don’t have an excuse for missing out on this film series.