Making a film about identical twin gynecologists after having two successful Hollywood films may seem like folly, or it may seem like exactly what a filmmaker like David Cronenberg would do. Cronenberg used the boost of success to get a complex, psychological drama made, and while it may not have paid off at the box office, it’s become an essential work of the director that pulls elements from his body horror films while moving him into the more psychological examinations he would explore later. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we wrap up our Cronenberg series with his 1988 film Dead Ringers.
We talk about the nature of identity as it relates to twins and acting, and what the film is saying about it. We look at the central performance by Jeremy Irons who creates two incredibly nuanced characters, as well as Geneviève Bujold, who is brilliant as the woman who comes between them. We discuss the twinning effects used to create some incredibly complicated and stunning shots (and some that are a bit more obvious). We touch on Howard Shore’s beautiful score. And we chat about Cronenberg as he’s grown from his early career through to now and where he goes from here.
It’s a fascinating film that allows for a spirited discussion. Check the movie out then tune in! The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins.
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