Written & Directed By: David Cronenberg
Cinematography: Douglas Koch
Editor: Christopher Donaldson
Cast: Viggo Mortensen, Lea Seydoux, Don Mckellar, Kristen Stewart, Scott Speedman, Nadia Litz, Lihi Kornowski, Tanaya Beatty, Weller Bungue
As the human species adapts to a synthetic environment, the body undergoes new transformations and mutations. With his partner, Caprice, Saul Tenser, a celebrity performance artist, publicly showcases the metamorphosis of his organs in avant-garde performances. Timlin, an investigator from the National Organ Registry, obsessively tracks their movements, which is when a mysterious group is revealed… Their mission – is to use Saul’s notoriety to shed light on the next phase of human evolution.
The film feels like director David Cronenberg chooses to begin the movie with a shock in the middle of beauty. As it shows how quickly things can go from simple to shocking. Which is to prepare the audience for what comes after and throughout. Even though the rest of the film is similar in quality though some might turn away because of the more graphic scenes. The film never feels like a horror film.
Not really a horror film. As it does involve what could be considered body horror even though in theory it does explore a society where bodies can create phantom limbs. Extends more into science fiction and in exploring that phenomenon where it is special but a little more commonplace. Thought leans itself towards science fiction or more hardcore fantasy as it does build not only a world only bit in visuals but more in small details that makes it more intimate and more disturbing how close it can be to more of a civilized reality in design. Which is a marvel In itself.
So that while the film might be disturbing to some. It never quite reaches the heights of disgust, but as with most David Cronenberg films, there is a sensational aspect that tries ti be subtle. That for some might be lightly provocative but feels more there ti be provocative but that factor is more the director every day and for his audience, it might actually feel aggressive
It tries to go to some extremes and while it might shock some audience members for Cronenberg’s fans or those used to his movies. It comes with the territory. If not expected when it comes to his films. If anything it is more shocking when his films are lighter or shows restraint. This isn’t a man you expect to take the road or provide any out-and-out comedy from.
The film for all of its raciness still strangely feels a bit tame, Never as exciting as it lets on or seems to be headed. Even one of the biggest stars in the movie comes off as more goofy than credible or irritating.
Lea Seydoux is committed to her role and truly gives her all. One of her most expressive English language roles. She also adds a kind of European oddity to this artistic expenditure. She also adds a memorable nude scene.
Cronenberg’s expression of ideas and imagination always seems to provoke. Who might believe he is out to shock though here it seems done to build a world.
One can’t say that they understood everything. Though you go with it as it keeps you invested, especially visually. As the effects are simple yet effective. It could be his presence his story and the effects matter of fact or rather than aiming to disgust
The film does succeed in building a world where all of this is a result of one another.
The film feels experimental in lotus ten Stewart’s performance. As the rest of the film feels assured.
Not as shocking, not sure if that is due to what he has done before and we are used to it, or in this climate, it’s more here to shock us or move us.
As this film feels more like a presentation than anything else. The film never quite feels full or it feels like a beginning to something but not a thorough ending.
Grade: B-
Cut To The Chase 