David Cronenberg seemed to continue from where he left off with his first theatrical feature film, Shivers, when he wrote his script for his next film. Certainly, there are differences, but largely, the stories have a lot of similarities. That being said, there are definite signs of growth for this storyteller, and as far as his body horror films, there is a big step up with his second film. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our David Cronenberg series with his 1977 film, Rabid.
We talk about the improvements Cronenberg shows with this film, and also look at a few areas he still needs work. We chat about working with adult film star Marilyn Chambers in this film and how she generally does a great job in it. We look at the effects and the nature of the body horror and debate if it’s scary or not, and why. And we look at the comparison Cronenberg is making to sexually transmitted diseases and how well it works in that regard.
It’s a solid and entertaining film, even with some of its story issues, and we have a great time digging into it. Check it out then tune in to this week’s show. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins.
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