The Lawnmower Man Details

The eye-popping special effects are the real star of this science-fiction tale, which is vaguely based on a Stephen King short story. Otherwise, it's notable only for its attempt to combine a variation on the Frankenstein theme with the cinematic opportunities offered by “virtual reality”. Pierce Brosnan plays the misguided scientist — is there any other kind? — who selects his simple-minded gardener (Jeff Fahey) as a guinea pig for his experiments with hi-tech teaching aids and intelligence-boosting drugs. The film offers shades of everything from My Fair Lady to Carrie, and also boasts cinema's first known cybersex scene.

Some impressive special effects, simulating 'virtual reality' Ð a computer-created world Ð enliven an otherwise drab and predictable science fiction movie.