Not Quite Human is the title of a 1987 American made‑for‑television science‑fiction comedy film produced by Walt Disney Television. The film is an adaptation of the juvenile novel series Not Quite Human written by Seth McEvoy, which follows the adventures of an android teenager attempting to live a normal human life.
Production and Release
- Production company: Walt Disney Television
- Original network: The film premiered on the Disney Channel as part of the network’s original movie lineup.
- Premiere date: March 7 1987 (U.S.)
Plot Overview
The story centers on an advanced android named Chip who is created by a brilliant but eccentric scientist. Chip is placed with a suburban family in an attempt to integrate him into everyday human society. The narrative explores the comedic and dramatic situations that arise as Chip navigates high school, friendships, and the challenges of concealing his non‑human nature.
Cast and Characters
- Jay Underwood as Chip, the android protagonist.
- Alan Thicke as Dr. Jerry Hathaway, the scientist who designs Chip and acts as his mentor.
- Supporting cast includes actors portraying Chip’s adoptive family and school peers, though detailed credits vary among sources.
Reception and Legacy
Not Quite Human received moderate viewership for a cable television movie and was noted for its family‑friendly tone and light‑hearted treatment of science‑fiction themes. Its modest success led Disney to produce two sequels:
- Not Quite Human II (1989) – continues Chip’s integration into human society while introducing new technological challenges.
- Still Not Quite Human (1990) – further develops Chip’s personal growth and explores more complex teenage issues.
The trilogy is remembered as part of Disney’s late‑1980s effort to expand original, original‑content programming for its cable audience.
Source Material
The original novel series by Seth McEvoy (published 1985–1987) provided the narrative foundation for the films, emphasizing themes of identity, technology, and the definition of humanity.
Cultural Impact
While not a major box‑office or critical landmark, Not Yet Human and its sequels contributed to the broader 1980s trend of family‑oriented science‑fiction media, alongside contemporaries such as Small Wonder and Weird Science. The concept of a teenage android seeking normalcy continues to appear in later works, reflecting the enduring appeal of the “not quite human” motif.
