The Fly

The most famous horror film metamorphosis. When teleportation is invented, it will be to it what Jaws was for swimming in the sea. (17/08/2007)

A very unusual variation on the theme of a failed science experiment. The use of the personal breakdown of a person, both mentally and physically, offers a great opportunity, especially for acting artistry. Jeff Goldblum is convincing both early on, when he plays a scientist passionate about his life's work, and later on, when the makeup team does an amazing job with him to the last detail. The typical nervous tics associated with the unmistakable gaze of his black eyes create an impressive acting portrayal. On the other hand, it must also be acknowledged that Geena Davis has never been an exceptional actress, but surprisingly, she delivers more than we were used to seeing from her, which is pleasing. But as a whole, The Fly is quite off. Although it is intellectually impressive and profound - sacrificing everything to achieve personal goals, the script is too shapeless, and overall, there is not a single proper twist in it. Cronenberg, despite being a director who "zooms in" with the camera where others would use editing, somehow failed to properly blend personal drama with horror. In other words, what emotions was that creature supposed to evoke, exactly? Although I have to admit that his cameo in the delivery room had something to it and my stomach protested at times. (09/11/2005)

Today, it all looks kind of childish and too latex-like, but Goldblum's performance is suggestive and some moments are truly disgusting (digestion of food)... it gives me the impression of the conservative horror mess of the 80s - for example, compared to Carpenter's The Thing, it lacks invention and a stronger atmosphere. A truly antiquarian affair that amuses rather than makes one tense... (20/01/2007)

The fear and horror is not immediately present in the film, but it gradually escalates until the grand and, it must be said, quite brutal finale, which is probably the best part. The screenwriters wrote a simple, typical textbook, linear script, but paid attention to the details, and they wrote the main character well: a diligent scientist whose behavior, appearance, and psyche gradually change. Additionally, the film is presented in a way that can be understood by the average viewer, without unnecessary scientific jargon. (06/03/2005)

Well deserved cult status and a must for all horror fans. Cronenberg plays with every detail and thanks to his precise direction we don't just watch the protagonist as a central chess piece in a hopeless position, but we are him and we feel his gradual transformation into a hideous monster on our own flesh. The more resilient viewers will probably be left with a chill down their spines, while the less able-bodied may even get a slight bucketful at the sight of a peeling and drooling Jeff Goldblum. Either way, The Fly is a memorable experience – not for everyone perhaps, but an experience nonetheless :) 85% (27/01/2013)

The film does not have a happy ending, and it cannot have one. What "The Fly" presents to us in the end is truly disgusting. Although it seems that Cronenberg prefers non-graphic moments, he unleashes such naturalism on us that it makes one sick. But that's good. This is how it should be. When a radioactive spider bites you, you most likely won't become Spider-Man, but simply die. When you accidentally teleport with a fly, don't expect to gain the superpower of flying. The finale of this film beautifully shows us how far transformation can go. Nothing nice. (22/11/2013)