I kind of feel bad about ‘Rabid’ because it just didnt quite set my world alight in the same way that a lot of Cronenberg films do. Part of me feels though that this is because it’s a little *too* close to ‘Shivers’ in terms of what its trying to do. and realistically, im sure theres more than enough evidence here to lay claim that this could be seen as a bigger budgeted broader remake of ‘Shivers’ only replacing a killer sexy leech organism with a skin graft that causes mega rabies.
Thats not to say the film is a complete wash out however. I really liked ‘Shivers’ as an idea and while im a little dismayed to see the basic concept kind of regurgitated so soon after ‘Shivers’ was made. I do have to admit however that on a technical level, this thing blows ‘Shivers’ clean out of the water.
Its a much more refined and nuanced production that feels like Cronenberg learnt a LOT from his first foray into feature film production, and its clear here that some of his more signature directing style is really starting to fruit quite wonderfully. we have the clear beginnings of a keen eye for direction. The script keeps a decent pace, is pretty well structured and while it does lose a little momentum at the start of the 3rd act, its still an enjoyable and thouroughly grim time that I enjoyed.
The cine is a vast step up from his previous work, as is his direction of the cast and his soundtrack choices.
Honestly; I just dont really have a whole lot to say about this one. It feels like a director on the grow, but I was a little dissapointed that his second ever feature was kind of a retooling of his first feature. Thats not to say I didnt enjoy it, I absolutely did. I just feel this is a case of being more comfortable with ‘Shivers’ having seen it half a dozen times, makes liking this film (even though it IS technically superior) a bit harder because im not as familiar or in tune with its beats.
One I liked, but didnt love. I could see myself being won over by this one with rewatches. as its stands, it’s an obvious recommended movie from me. And if you havent seen any Cronenberg, I’d recommend this one as a solid starting point.
TYTD Reviews 