It's basically a thematic sequel to Videodrome. It deals with a lot of the same questions of virtual realities, existentialism, and media culture, only it does so fifteen years later, using video games and cyberculture, instead of television, as its starting point. And it's just as brilliant. The use of nested realities is both intriguing and thought-provoking, and the wonderfully self-aware performances from the two leads only add to this. Cronenberg tackles issues as wide-ranging as technology, sexuality, morality, and reality, and he does so in a much more subtle and effective way than was done in The Matrix, which overwhelmed this film. Plus there's his trademark grotesque imagery, a dark sense of humour that pervades every moment, and even a touch of self-reflexivity. Don't be dissuaded by the similarities to other films of its ilk; this is a superbly original work.

I think I rented this way back after reading a review in EW. Maybe, it's been so long, but I really liked this film after watching it. It's one of those "twist" type films and it had interesting plot and idea and with good actors. I think I need to rent this again. It's a movie that lays in the back of your mind crying out to be rented after 12 months of not seeing it.

B+


Hmm, I don't remember everything of it, so I definitely need to rewatch it. My grade is from a couple years ago. I definitely liked it, but thought that while the twists were pretty clever in themselves, the movie probably could have benefited from having a twist or two less than it actually did. The ideas behind the thing as well as the visual execution are pretty good, however, I've just gotta compare it to The Matrix which is superior on nearly every level. (oh yes, the Cronenberg-ites here are gonna execute me now). This one's a visual treat, nevertheless and an interesting watch too. In fact, I liked all three virtual-reality movies released in that time a lot: The Matrix, eXistenZ and The 13th Floor. Anyone here seen the latter?

Except in its exploration of the themes and issues, which is really the most important part. I'm as crazy about The Matrix as every other geeky white male, but it just pales in comparison to eXistenZ, which is just a lot more interesting.


You have no idea.

Why do you "gotta" compare it to anything, let alone a movie it's nothing like?

They deal with virtual realities and perception of reality. That is close enough to compare.

(and how the hell did I just know that trixster and makeshift would appear in here after my review?! )

I think that the blend of entertainment, philosophical issues and reflections on some themes is just overall much more successful in the Matrix. It never overwhelms the viewer with either, but nothing comes too short either.

I still don't understand why they have to be compared at all, but... whatever floats your boat!

They don't have to be.

I also don't have to compare someting like Star Wars and Lord of the Rings. Yet I do : )

Its fun in that Cronenburg way. Kinda like the bastard child of Videodrome via the SEGA Virtual reality headset.

A-

Excellent film. One of my favorite top films. I love movies with a twist at the end, which make you also think afterwards.