---
title: "A Shock to the System"
year: 1990
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/a-shock-to-the-system-1990"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 20876
imdb_id: null
status: "Unknown"
community_rating: 6.5
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "Unrated"
---

# A Shock to the System (1990) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/a-shock-to-the-system-1990

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

A Shock to the System is a 1990 American black comedy film directed by Jan Egleson and based on the 1984 novel by British author Simon Brett. The story follows experienced advertising executive Graham Marshall, who goes down a path of vengeance after losing out on a promotion to a young man.

The film stars Michael Caine, Swoosie Kurtz, Elizabeth McGovern, and Peter Riegert, and it was released in the United States on March 23, 1990. Running for 1 hour and 31 minutes, the film combines crime and comedy elements within its narrative.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "An experienced advertising executive takes a path of vengeance after losing a promotion."

### Why Watch
- It stars Michael Caine, Swoosie Kurtz, Elizabeth McGovern, and Peter Riegert.
- It is directed by Jan Egleson and based on the 1984 novel by Simon Brett.
- It combines elements of crime and comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes.

### Caveats & Content Note
- Viewers who dislike black comedies or crime stories may not find it appealing.
- Tone & Suitability: The tone blends crime and comedy, and the film has a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: #black-comedy, #crime, #corporate-vengeance, #1990-film, #book-adaptation

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/a-shock-to-the-system-1990#watch.

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Where to stream A Shock to the System?
Streaming availability can vary, but platforms like Plex have featured information regarding the film.

### Q: Whether it is worth watching?
The 1990 film received generally positive reviews and features a cast led by Michael Caine.

### Q: Binge duration?
The film has a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes.

### Q: Essential episodes?
A Shock to the System is a feature-length film rather than a television series with episodes.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [A Shock to the System — The Movie Database (TMDB)](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/20876)
- [A Shock to the System (1990 film) - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Shock_to_the_System_(1990_film))
- [A Shock to the System (1990) - Full cast & crew - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0100602/fullcredits/)
- [A Shock to the System (1990) - Cast & Crew — The Movie ...](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/20876-a-shock-to-the-system/cast)
- [A Shock to the System (1990 film) - Wikiwand](https://www.wikiwand.com/en/A_Shock_to_the_System_(1990_film))
- [A Shock to the System (1990) 평점 후기 등장인물 무료 다시보기 OTT 보는곳](https://gamsgopromocode.com/)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*