10 Hidden Gem Body Horror Movies

Although Frank Henenlotter's Frankenhooker and Basket Case trilogy developed cult-followings, Brain Damage never garnered the same audience. This is a shame, since it's arguably Henenlotter's best film.

The comedic creature feature centres around a relatively ordinary man called Brian whose life turns upside-down when a brain-eating parasite fuses to his spine. Rather than sucking Brian's skull dry, Aylmer overloads his host's cerebral cortex with endorphins, causing him to experience pure happiness. Aylmer promises to let Brian experience this nirvana state again if he finds victims for him to snack on.

Considering the antagonist is a goofy-looking alien with a silly voice, it goes without saying that Brain Damage doesn't take itself too seriously. Having said that, the '80s gem is surprisingly effective at portraying mature themes, including drug addiction, loss of control, and self-destructive cravings. 

Though Brian rejects Aylmer's nefarious scheme at first, he changes his tune when the lack of endorphins causes him to hallucinate. The withdrawal gets so bad, Brian begins to imagine his organs are falling out and blood is gushing from his head. Unable to cope with the pain, Brian begs Aylmer to take control of his mind, willingly turning himself into a murderous junkie once again. 

Even though Brain Damage could've been a forgettable B-movie, moments like this really elevate the material.