David Cronenberg took a bit more of a science fiction route rather than straight-up body horror with his 1981 film Scanners. It didn’t have a personal connection like The Brood, his previous effort, either, so it stands out a bit in his work. That being said, the body horror elements certainly crop up in the gruesome effects he uses. But is he hiding a nonsense story in atmosphere? Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our Cronenberg series with Scanners.
We talk about the nature of this film and how it fits in his body of work. We look at the cast and debate if their acting during mind battles makes any sense or if it’s just over-the-top acting. We discuss the incredible effects used in the film and chat about why the effects are so few and far between. We touch on the incredible sound design and score. And we look at why a film like this can work for some and not others.
It’s a divisive film on this show but one we have a great time discussing. Check it out then tune in! The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins.
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Film Sundries
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- Script Transcript
- Original theatrical trailer
- Original poster artwork
- Flickchart
- Letterboxd
