David Cronenberg is one of those esteemed directors who'd focus on plot, theme and characters even it was for a simple monster motion picture.
From the beginning, steady story progression pushed the plot while introducing us key character traits, such as motion sickness and similar clothing preference for our protagonist. With only 3 characters on the forefront, the writers were able to keep the narrative uncomplicated and focused. The story itself was intriguing, and having the theme of moving on to another life attached to it made the product all the more wholesome.
A-story helped the B seamlessly and as a matter of fact, expositions were done smoothly possible too. Speaking of expositions, one can never forget the beautifully explained steak-computer understanding scene. Not to forget, in classic Cronenberg style, the other side of relationship between characters were revealed in an unexpected way! On a side note, the monologues were written with thoughts.
Made in 1986, The Fly was a breakout hit known worldwide for its prestigious special effects! Be it the baboon turned inside out, human-fly fusion on molecular genetic level or the very end pod-Brundlefly amalgamation, the work here was top notch! Gradual physical changes shown via body spots, nail drop, hair shrinkage, bone bending up till the actual complete transformation was meticulously pulled off. A great director like David Cronenberg knew exactly how not to disgust the audience while at the same time, project how horrible the circumstances were!
In the writing itself, the progressive physical transfiguration was spelt out clearly. Chip causing a wound opening eventually allowing a fly's gene to blend with Brundle's (Jeff Goldblum), increased sugar intake and hike in energy level walked us through this irreversible process step by step. We could only wish for the writers to have done the same for the lead pair's romance, as it felt forced. The same thing can be said about Brundle's decision to experiment with himself in the teleportation pod. This occurrence was too abrupt that came right out of left field! Being drunk and upset were not at all character-bound, integrity-based and acceptable excuses to come from a logic-inclined scientist like this character we’ve acquainted with.
This was the kind of film we'd have no clue how the ending's gonna be like. When the pregnancy and abortion issues were brought out, it didn’t dilly-dally too much before becoming a crucial solution to the main problem. With a heartbreaking ending, we've witnessed curiosity killing the cat for real this time.
Jeff Goldblum was an enigma! He's a fantastic, charismatic, unique and unbeatable actor who was just being himself. His speech deliveries and body languages will always be the talk of the town. Other technicality wise, the camerawork and colors were pristine! Cuts can be jarring at times. Classified production design like the pods and computer added value to the overall atmosphere.