This discussion features Ben Pearson, Jacob Hall, BJ Colangelo, and Chris Evangelista, all film editors with a knack for dissecting genre cinema. They dive into the gritty world of body horror, exploring its defining characteristics and the emotional depth behind the grotesque. Key films are passionately debated, from Cronenberg classics to modern gems like 'Possessor.' The group also reveals hidden treasures and shares their personal favorites, culminating in a lively ranking of the most impactful body horror movies that leave both chills and thought-provoking questions.
The podcast emphasizes the subjective nature of genre boundaries in body horror, prompting a re-evaluation of commonly categorized films like 'The Thing.'
It highlights how body horror films like 'The Fly' and 'Possessor' explore deep themes of transformation, identity, and psychological invasion, pushing the genre's narrative boundaries.
Deep dives
Defining Body Horror
Body horror is characterized by the fear stemming from the transformation or degradation of the human body. A strong distinction is made between body horror and possession movies, as the latter often focuses on external forces acting upon the body rather than the body itself undergoing horrific changes. The conversation brings into question several films commonly categorized as body horror, prompting a re-evaluation of titles like John Carpenter's 'The Thing,' which, while iconic, features alien creatures rather than human bodily transformation. This debate highlights the subjective nature of genre boundaries, emphasizing the need for clear criteria when discussing body horror films.
Iconic Body Horror Films
'The Fly' emerges as a leading example of body horror, celebrated for its poignant portrayal of a man's tragic transformation into a fly. This film is recognized not only for its grotesque imagery but also for the emotional weight it carries, illustrating deep themes of decay and loss. The character development of Seth Brundle, played by Jeff Goldblum, adds layers of tragedy to the horrifying visual transformation, making it a staple reference in discussions of body horror. The cinematic techniques used in 'The Fly' continue to resonate, establishing it as an essential film in both horror and dramatic storytelling.
Exploring Contemporary Body Horror
Brandon Cronenberg's 'Possessor' stands out as a modern take on body horror, showcasing disturbing themes related to bodily autonomy and psychological invasion. The film utilizes graphic violence to provoke visceral reactions while exploring the mental ramifications of losing control over one's own body. Its incorporation of technology and the psychological aspects of identity transformation push the boundaries of the genre, making 'Possessor' a noteworthy addition to discussions on body horror. By juxtaposing contemporary concerns with traditional horror elements, it invites viewers to confront uncomfortable realities regarding agency and physicality.
Underappreciated Gems in Body Horror
'Society' and 'Tetsuo: The Iron Man' represent lesser-known masterpieces of the body horror genre that delve into social commentary and body transformation. 'Society' explores the grotesque nature of class and identity through its provocative depiction of body-sharing rituals among the elite, combining dark humor with chilling visuals. Meanwhile, 'Tetsuo: The Iron Man' presents a nightmarish vision of flesh and metal, illustrating the externalization of industrialization and existential dread through raw and practical effects. Both films challenge conventional narratives, expanding the realm of body horror into artistic, thought-provoking territories that deserve recognition.
On the September 19, 2024 episode of /Film Daily, /Film editor Ben Pearson is joined by /Film editors Jacob Hall, BJ Colangelo, and /Film editor and chief film critic Chris Evangelista to rank our favorite body horror movies.
You can find more about all the stories we mentioned on today’s show at slashfilm.com, and linked inside the show notes.
/Film Daily is published every weekday, bringing you the most exciting news from the world of movies and TV as well as deeper dives into the great features from slashfilm.com.
Send your feedback, questions, comments, concerns, and mailbag topics to us at bpearson@slashfilm.com. Please leave your name and general geographic location in case we mention your e-mail on the air.
Don’t forget to take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify - that helps us out a lot. And tell your friends about the show!