Review of Naked Lunch (1991) by David S — 20 Aug 2010

As a great admirer of Cronenberg's works, 'Naked Lunch' remained on my must-view list for quite some time. I've always remained hesitant due to the headache that was sure ensue upon completion. Now, the ache wasn't that bad, but it certainly didn't fail at leaving me at a loss of words. And I'll have it be known that the as I type the remainder of this review, I won't be able to help but imagining my keyboard as a giant bug.

Now, As a metaphor for the writing process and all the frustrations that comes with it, the films is a great success, but even a small attempt at grasping the film is beyond difficult. It's certainly unique, well acted, and has an undeniable art behind it, but it's never grounded and seemingly impossible to penetrate upon one viewing. Being on some sort of drug might help during the viewing of the film. Cronenberg still remains one of the greatest in my book, but I just can't figure out where this ranks amongst his works.

My complete division over whether or not I want to recommend has induced a heavy case of writers block, but believe me, rational thought was thoroughly terminated. 'Obliterated' might actually be more accurate...