The Fly is a science fiction/horror film directed by David Cronenberg. The film stars Jeff Goldblum as Seth Brundle, a scientist developing telepods that allow matter to be instantaneously transported from one location to another. After a successful test involving a baboon, Brundle, fueled by alcohol and romantic rejection, decides to transport himself. During the test he fails to notice a fly in his pod and the two living beings are transported together. With their DNA now fused, Jeff Goldblum begins a ghastly transformation into a fly (or, depending on your perspective, the fly slowly transforms into Jeff Goldblum).
The initial consequences of being part fly are surprisingly positive. Brundle finds himself with super-human strength and arm wrestling skills beyond Sylvester Stallone's wildest dreams. However, his human form quickly dissolves and he concurrently exhibits distinctively fly-like behavior (complete with a totally sugar-based diet). As the inevitably of his condition becomes apparent, Brundle becomes increasingly despondent. The deterioration of his human form is accompanied by decreasing lucidity and bizarre musings.
The true terror of The Fly is found in the allegorical nature of the metamorphosis. A common trait of Cronenberg's films is the seemingly fantastical developments are actually a small step removed from reality, if they're removed at all. The transformation of Brundle is frighteningly similar to the process of succumbing to a terminal illness, or expanded to everybody, the natural course of aging. It's a remarkable accomplishment that the lasting fear of The Fly has nothing to do with the title.
In addition to the compelling exploration of existential themes, The Fly succeeds thanks to a strong performance from Jeff Goldblum and terrific visual effects, as grisly as they may be. It is essentially viewing, provided you have an ironclad stomach.
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