High school student David Lightman has a talent for hacking. But while trying to hack into a computer system to play unreleased video games, he unwittingly taps into the Department of Defense's war computer and initiates a confrontation of global proportions. Together with his friend and a wizardly computer genius, David must race against time to outwit his opponent and prevent a nuclear Armageddon.
Matthew Broderick David Lightman
Dabney Coleman McKittrick
John Wood Stephen Falken
Ally Sheedy Jennifer
Barry Corbin General Beringer
Juanin Clay Pat Healy
Kent Williams Cabot
Dennis Lipscomb Watson
Joe Dorsey Conley
Irving Metzman Richter
Michael Ensign Beringer's Aide
William Bogert Mr. Lightman
Susan Davis Mrs. Lightman
James Tolkan Wigan
David Clover Stockman
Drew Snyder Ayers
John Garber Corporal in the Infirmary
Duncan Wilmore Major Lem
Billy Ray Sharkey Radar Analyst
John Spencer Jerry
Michael Madsen Steve
James Lemp Commander
Gary Bisig Deputy
Gary Sexton Technician
Jason Bernard Captain Knewt
Frankie Hill Airman Fields
Jesse D. Goins Sergeant
Alan Blumenfeld Mr. Liggett
Len Lawson Boys Vice Principal
Maury Chaykin Jim Sting
Eddie Deezen Malvin
Stephen Lee Sgt. Schneider
Lucinda Crosby Nurse in Infirmary
Stack Pierce Airman
Art LaFleur Guard
Brad David Flight Pilot Leader
Martha Shaw Vice Principal's Secretary
Howie Allen Boy in Arcade
Michael Adams Travis
James Ackerman Joshua
Jim Harriott Newscaster
Tom Lawrence Sgt. Sims
Frances E. Nealy Visitor
Charles Akins Major Ford
Glenn Standifer Major Wenstin
Edward Jahnke NORAD Officer
Paul V. Picerni Jr. Technician
William H. Macy NORAD Officer (uncredited)