10 Best Body Horror Movies
4. The Fly
Like Videodrome, this is a masterclass in effects and bodily transformation from David Cronenberg. The plot focuses on Seth Brundle (Jeff Goldblum) as a genius scientist working on something that will change the world. He meets Veronica (Geena Davis), a science magazine reporter, and offers to let her take a look at his secret project.
Seth blows her away with his teleportation pods when he transports one of her stockings. Her interest is initially professional but soon they become romantically involved. Seth decides to go through the teleporter himself after an argument with Veronica but doesn’t realise that a fly joins him in the pod before the teleportation happens. He goes through the teleporter seemingly unharmed at first.
The initial effects on Seth are all positive and he develops superhuman strength and agility which leads to some great scenes involving some impromptu gymnastics and arm wrestling.
As the movie progresses, the fly begins to take over Seth’s body and he suffers through a number of terrifying changes and mutations which culminate in a tragic final sequence showing how breath-taking practical effects can be.
Goldblum gives a career-best performance as Seth Brundle here. He brings an intense eccentricity to the role which is perfectly balanced with an ability to create empathy with the audience.