A controversial horror film that generated significant reactions during its premiere is set to air on BBC2 this evening. "Crimes of the Future," directed by David Cronenberg, features notable performances from Kristen Stewart, Viggo Mortensen, and Léa Seydoux.
The film made headlines at the Cannes Film Festival last year when numerous attendees walked out during its showing, reportedly unable to endure its shocking content. Despite these walkouts, "Crimes of the Future" received accolades, including a seven-minute standing ovation, and holds an 80% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicative of a favourable critical reception.
The film delves into themes of human adaptation in a synthetic environment, exploring the transformations and mutations that the human body undergoes. The narrative follows Saul Tenser, portrayed by Mortensen, a celebrity performance artist who showcases the metamorphosis of his organs in avant-garde public performances. His partner, Caprice, played by Seydoux, accompanies him in these exhibitions, while stress lines emerge from the scrutiny of Timlin, an investigator from the National Organ Registry, portrayed by Stewart.
The film is characterized by its graphic scenes, including a gory child autopsy, vivid depictions of bloody intestines, and scenes of characters engaged in grotesque acts that blur the lines of pleasure and pain. Cronenberg previously commented on the mixed reactions, stating, "I mean, the worst thing is if your movie is boring... And that would be very depressing." His intention to provoke thought rather than mundanity is apparent in his exploration of what he terms "Accelerated Evolution Syndrome," an affliction that leads characters to evolve beyond their natural states.
Set in a not-too-distant future, the story tackles concepts surrounding trans-humanism—an ideology that celebrates the limitless potential of human evolution while highlighting the challenges posed by societal policing of such changes. As Tenser's condition grows more complex, he and Caprice must confront the implications of their performances as they attract the attention of government authorities and underground movements.
Given its graphic content and intense themes, "Crimes of the Future" is not recommended for viewers who may feel uneasy about explicit horror films. The screening on BBC2 is scheduled for 11pm tonight, presenting audiences an opportunity to engage with this polarizing work from one of cinema's leading figures in the genre.
Source: Noah Wire Services