Review of Altered States (1980) by Alec B — 24 Jul 2012
They way it recklessly hurls itself into the narrative (embracing terrifying symbolism and absurd dialogue) is why I've always rather liked it. Russell isn't interested in attempting to rationally explain whats occurring, you either accept it or you don't.
Basically if getting to see William Hurt take some drugs, go into a sensory deprivation tank, hallucinate biblical imagery, and then turn into a neanderthal is interesting to you, then you'll like this film .
. . if not I'd stay away from it. The performances of Brown and Hurt are about as believable as you can get with this material and the film's sort of "rationally insane" energy is partially due to their successful work.
This review of Altered States (1980) was written by Alec B on 24 Jul 2012.
Altered States has generally received positive reviews.
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