Spare Parts

A group of determined students defy the odds to build a robot and forge lifelong friendships.

Critics found the true-story robotics drama sincere and effective as inspirational entertainment, while judging its familiar story beats less powerful than similar underdog films.

• Four inexperienced students with limited money and used parts challenge MIT, the reigning robotics champion.
• The students learn to design and build a robot while developing self-determination and a lasting bond.
• New teacher Fredi leads the robotics club and helps four Hispanic high school students pursue national competition.
• The team builds its robot from an $800 budget, used car parts, and limited experience.

• McFarland, USAshared true-story underdog structure, inspirational teamwork, and school-centered competition
• October Skyshared youth ensemble, mentor figure, self-determination, and feel-good competitive drama
• McFarland, USAshared Latino community context, underdog sports-drama rhythms, and emphasis on perseverance
• The Great Debatersshared educational setting, disadvantaged students, and uplifting mentor-led achievement story

Director

Sean McNamara

Release Date

2015-01-16

Runtime

115 min

Rating

7.2 / 10 (228)

What is Spare Parts about?

Four under-resourced Hispanic students turn discarded car parts and stubborn determination into a robotics team capable of challenging the nation’s best.

What is Spare Parts like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Spare Parts as brisk, its intensity as moderate and its storytelling as easy to follow.

Is Spare Parts violent?

No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in Spare Parts.

What did critics think of Spare Parts?

Critics found the true-story robotics drama sincere and effective as inspirational entertainment, while judging its familiar story beats less powerful than similar underdog films.

Which films are like Spare Parts?

Films with a similar feel include McFarland, USA, October Sky, McFarland, USA, and The Great Debaters.

How long is Spare Parts?

Spare Parts runs 115 minutes.

Where can I watch Spare Parts?

In United States, Spare Parts streams on Hoopla, Cinemax Amazon Channel, VIX , Plex, Plex Player, Plex Channel, Fawesome, Angel Studios, Cinemax Apple TV channel, Tubi TV.