Project X (1987 film)

Project X is a 1987 American science fiction comedy-drama film directed by Jonathan Kaplan, starring Matthew Broderick and Helen Hunt. The film deals with the ethical treatment of animals in scientific research and the military.

The plot centers around Jimmy Garrett (Broderick), a young Air Force pilot reassigned to a top-secret program after a series of disciplinary infractions. Initially believing he's training chimpanzees to fly military flight simulators, Jimmy gradually discovers the true nature of "Project X": the chimpanzees are being subjected to dangerous radiation experiments, ostensibly to test the effects of nuclear war on pilots.

The chimpanzees are being taught to operate the flight simulators through operant conditioning techniques by Teri McDonald (Hunt), a graduate student. Jimmy develops a bond with a chimpanzee named Virgil, who is capable of communicating through sign language. Virgil reveals that previous chimpanzees have died during the experiments, prompting Jimmy and Teri to investigate the project further.

As they uncover the truth, Jimmy and Teri become increasingly disturbed by the inhumane conditions and the unethical nature of the research. They decide to expose the project to the public, risking their careers and freedom to save the chimpanzees. The film explores themes of animal rights, government secrecy, and the dangers of unchecked scientific experimentation.