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Poster for The Cable Guy

The Cable Guy

Seen it?

1996 | 96 min | Comedy, Drama, Thriller

Weeknight Watch

Why it’s a Weeknight Watch

It's still drawing plenty of interest, but a lukewarm 6.0 out of 10 from audiences held it back. Fine if it's on; don't plan your night around it.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who likes to be kept guessing and anyone who wants a laugh. If you loved The King of Comedy or Bottle Rocket, start here.
The mood
Darkly funny, tense.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 36 min.
What might put you off
Rated PG-13. Probably too much for younger kids.

When recently single Steven moves into his new apartment, cable guy Chip comes to hook him up—and doesn't let go. Initially, Chip is just overzealous in his desire to be Steven's pal, but when Steven tries to end the 'friendship', Chip shows his dark side. He begins stalking Steven, who's left to fend for himself because no one else can believe Chip's capable of such behaviour.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsSolid

    55% on Rotten Tomatoes, 56 on Metacritic

  • AudiencesBelow par

    6.0 out of 10

  • AwardsBelow par

    3 wins and 1 nomination from smaller awards and festivals. Plus: Nominated for 1 Razzie, the "worst of the year" awards.

  • Box office & staying powerSolid

    $103 million worldwide on a $47 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release

  • Buzz & cultural impactStrong

    About 353K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Ben Stiller

  • Jim CarreyCable Guy
  • Matthew BroderickSteven
  • Leslie MannRobin
  • Jack BlackRick
  • George SegalSteven's Father
  • Diane BakerSteven's Mother
  • Ben StillerSam Sweet
  • Eric RobertsEric Roberts
  • Janeane GarofaloMedieval Waitress
  • Andy DickMedieval Host