Meaning: This quote is from John Badham, the director of the 1986 science fiction comedy film "Short Circuit." The quote reflects on the popularity of the movie in Germany and the positive reception of the character Number Five, a sentient robot. "Number Five" refers to the main character, a military robot that gains consciousness after being struck by lightning and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and independence.

The film "Short Circuit" was a commercial success and received positive reviews for its humor, special effects, and the charismatic performance of the robot character. The quote specifically highlights the impact of the movie in Germany, where it found a particularly enthusiastic audience. This reflects the universal appeal of the film and its ability to resonate with viewers across different cultures.

The character of Number Five, also known as "Johnny Five," became an iconic figure in popular culture due to its endearing personality, inquisitiveness, and childlike wonder. The film's exploration of themes such as artificial intelligence, humanity, and friendship resonated with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

In the context of the quote, the reference to "crating up" Number Five reflects the physical packaging and transportation of a prop or model used in the film. This process likely took place after the completion of filming and may have been for promotional purposes or public displays, as mentioned by Eric, who took the character to Germany for display.

The mention of the Germans' affinity for the movie sheds light on the cross-cultural impact of "Short Circuit." The film's themes and humor transcended language and cultural barriers, capturing the imagination of audiences in Germany and beyond. This demonstrates the power of storytelling and the ability of a well-crafted film to resonate with diverse audiences.

John Badham's observation about the popularity of "Short Circuit" in Germany also underscores the global reach of Hollywood films and the influence of international markets on the success of a movie. It speaks to the importance of understanding and catering to the preferences of different audiences, as well as the potential for a film to find unexpected success in specific regions.

Furthermore, the quote provides insight into the director's perspective on the film's reception and impact. It highlights the pride and appreciation that Badham and the film's creators felt as they witnessed the enthusiastic response to their work, particularly in a foreign market. This reflects the universal appeal of storytelling and the satisfaction that comes from knowing that a film has resonated with audiences on a global scale.

In conclusion, John Badham's quote about the popularity of "Short Circuit" in Germany offers a glimpse into the film's cross-cultural impact, the enduring appeal of the character Number Five, and the universal themes that resonated with audiences worldwide. It serves as a testament to the power of storytelling to transcend cultural boundaries and bring people together through the shared experience of cinema.