Why I Freaking Love Starship Troopers

The Only Good Bug is a Dead Bug

Would you rather listen to Andrew Sears and me gush about the film?

"Starship Troopers" is one of those films that you either get or you don’t. For me, it’s a brilliantly subversive sci-fi action movie that goes beyond its surface of cheesy one-liners and intense bug battles to deliver sharp satire and social commentary.

Personal Connection

What originally drew me to "Starship Troopers" was the movie trailer featuring Blur's "Song 2" (which I could not find online FOREVER because I just kept calling it the "WOOHOO song"). It portrayed the film as a mega action fest with killer alien bugs and explosions. When I finally watched it, the film exceeded my expectations, offering a blend of intense action and thought-provoking themes.

Key Highlights

I freaking love so many moments from this film. The Brain Bug sucking out brains was truly disgusting (and edited out on TNT when I first saw it, HAH). The pseudo-arena football game they played in school was interesting, showcasing Johnny's almost superhuman abilities as he flipped over people. The school scene at the beginning clearly depicts the fascist government established by a military coup that tied citizenship and the right to vote to military service. One of the most satisfying scenes is Johnny leaping up on the tanker bug, shooting a hole into it, and then lobbing a 'nuke' grenade into it—both disgusting and immensely satisfying!

Themes and Messages

Paul Verhoeven is clearly anti-fascism, and he laced this entire film with that theme. As a teen, it was hard to pick up on, but now I can't un-see it, especially in light of recent events in our country. From the SS-like uniforms worn by military intelligence to the expendable view of infantry, where decisions are made without regard for their lives by those in power, these themes are strong and resonate deeply with the everyday American.

Character and Performances

Michael Ironside's turn as a veteran-turned-high-school-teacher-turned-combat-veteran is just the gritty, no-nonsense role that he excels in. And of course, it wouldn’t be a Paul Verhoeven film without him (remember his role in "Total Recall"?). Ironside brings a sense of gravitas and authenticity to the film, grounding the over-the-top action with his performance.

Visual and Audio Elements

Released in 1997, "Starship Troopers" was one of the last films of an era that blended practical effects with computer-generated imagery to tell its story. This era effectively ended after 1999’s "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace," which ushered in a new age of CGI dominance. "Starship Troopers" expertly used both practical effects and CGI, creating a visually captivating experience that still holds up today.

Comparisons

"Starship Troopers" knew exactly what it was: an over-the-top action fest with a satirical edge that cut through with sharp arachnid limbs. Unlike future sci-fi films (outside the Star Wars universe) that often became morose or melodramatic, "Starship Troopers" entertained and left audiences wanting more bug fights. It embraced its campiness and delivered a memorable experience.

Overall Impact

The film doesn’t stay with you for the quality of the process, but its themes leave you with nagging questions and an introspective look at our own society. The intense violence and battle scenes juxtapose the thrill of on-screen violence with the harsh reality of war’s cost. "Starship Troopers" challenges viewers to reflect on how easily we could be drawn into the tenets of their federal state's "managed democracy."

Helldivers 2’s terminids (from the hit game on PS5 and PC) are very reminiscent and borrow from the arachnids in STARSHIP TROOPERS

Conclusion

"Starship Troopers" is a cinematic gem that masterfully blends action, satire, and social commentary. Its standout moments, compelling themes, and unique blend of practical and CGI effects make it a film that continues to resonate. I freaking love this movie for its audacity, its humor, and its unflinching critique of fascism and militarism. If you haven't seen it yet, do yourself a favor and dive into this wild, thought-provoking ride.

Listen to Andrew Sears and me gush over STARSHIP TROOPERS (and HELLDIVERS 2) in our latest podcast episode.