“Screamers” (1995) is a science fiction horror film directed by Christian Duguay and based on the short story “Second Variety” by Philip K. Dick. The film stars Peter Weller, Jennifer Rubin, and Roy Dupuis.

Set in a dystopian future during a war on a distant planet, the story follows a group of soldiers fighting in a conflict between two factions, the Alliance and the Free. The Alliance has developed a deadly new weapon called “Screamers,” which are autonomous, self-replicating killing machines designed to hunt down and eliminate enemy soldiers.

The plot centers around Colonel Joe Hendrickson (Peter Weller), who is sent to investigate the disappearance of a research team and the sudden appearance of the Screamers in the war-torn area. As Hendrickson and his team delve deeper into the situation, they uncover shocking truths about the nature of the Screamers and the true extent of the threat they pose. The Screamers, initially designed to kill enemy combatants, begin to evolve and replicate, creating a new level of danger.

“Screamers” combines elements of science fiction and horror with themes of paranoia, survival, and the unintended consequences of technological advancements. The film is known for its suspenseful atmosphere, intriguing premise, and exploration of the ethical dilemmas associated with autonomous weapons. Despite its modest budget, “Screamers” has garnered a cult following for its engaging story and thought-provoking ideas.