The Cable Guy (1996)
A lonely cable installer's desperate need for friendship turns into a darkly-comic, suspenseful, satirical nightmare.
When recently single Steven moves into his new apartment, cable guy Chip comes to hook him up—and doesn't let go. Initially, Chip is just overzealous in his desire to be Steven's pal, but when Steven tries to end the 'friendship', Chip shows his dark side. He begins stalking Steven, who's left to fend for himself because no one else can believe Chip's capable of such behaviour.
How intense is The Cable Guy?
The Cable Guy is mildly scary, with no gore and strong violence. Emotionally it is heavy. The pace is measured, and it is a full-attention watch. The humor runs dark and cringe. Rated PG-13.
What The Cable Guy feels like
- Tone
- darkly comicsatiricalsuspensefulgritty
- Pace
- Measured
- Humor
- dark and satirical, cringe comedy
- Best for
- Full attention
Where to stream The Cable Guy
Not on a US subscription service at our last check. Rent or buy may still be an option.
US availability via TMDB, last checked Sep 15, 2026. The app filters picks to the services you actually have.
Is The Cable Guy for you?
Is The Cable Guy scary?
Only a little. The Cable Guy has a few tense moments (scare level 1 of 3), nothing that follows you to bed.
Is The Cable Guy gory or violent?
No gore (0 of 3) and strong violence (2 of 3).
Is The Cable Guy sad or heavy?
It is emotionally heavy (2 of 3). Expect it to land.
Is The Cable Guy OK for kids?
It is rated PG-13. Intensity: scare 1, gore 0, violence 2, each out of 3. Your call for older kids.
How long is The Cable Guy?
The Cable Guy runs 1h 36m.
Where can I stream The Cable Guy?
The Cable Guy is not on a US subscription service right now (rent or buy may still be an option).
Does The Cable Guy have a happy ending? spoiler-safe answer
There is a twist, and that is all we are saying.
Cast and crew
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