‘Ctrl-Alt-Deleted’ is a solid science-fiction thriller that demonstrates effective writing and a great sense of imagination. The world is involving, the set pieces and action are truly thrilling, and the ending is tragic but organic to this world. Matt is a solid protagonist, a down-on-his-luck man trying to deal with the loss of his business and the destruction of his marriage. Then, with the simple return of a mysterious DVD to his video store, he is pulled into a complicated conspiracy that could cost him his life. Pug-Nose and Square-Jaw are formidable antagonists, deadly robots that can’t be stopped (unless of course they run low on juice). Gloria is great as Matt’s saving grace and fills Matt (and by extension the audience) in on much of what’s going on. There are other interesting secondary characters in play as well, from Jonathan, to Pandora, to Jacques. The dialogue is also strong and helps develop the characters discussed above while layering in subtext on a number of fronts including redemption, forgiveness, loyalty, bravery, and courage. There are some sharp tough-guy lines and witty banter to boot. Last, the tone is even and consistent throughout.