The Fly 1986

This film is the remake of The Fly directed by David Cronenberg and has been improved from all the failings of it's predecessor, the special effects of the teleportation machine instantly gained my interest as a science fiction movie. The transformation was a spectacular improvement because there is a complete process of gradual changes that occur. It begins with subtle changes of growing insect hair and then physical structure of the character completely changes internally and externally as he becomes the form of the fly.

The plot line was much better in this remake, introducing the character of the journalist and how later she becomes pregnant and has nightmares of what she may of given birth to. There were points when the film was too blood thirsty and horrifying. One example was the mucus that 'the fly' sprays to eat his food and victims, also the transportation of the monkey that reappeared as internal organs was very disturbing.

The transformation was similar to a disease such as cancer or HIV and was effective in demonstrating the cons of what the character 'Seth' loses during this process. Two scenes where this becomes clear is the loss of finger nails and teeth, Seth learns to adapt without them and evole into the creature hybrid he becomes.

The only negative criticism was the final stage as the complete fly because although it was grotesque, creepy  sinister and captured the mannerisms of insect perfectly, it also had a fake feel as a mechanical puppet. This problem would easily be solved with today's technology. 

 

"Cronenberg's focus on a small cast was a smart move that helps him build complexity in their relationships and in the viewer's reactions. Likewise with the minimal settings. It all adds up to a beautiful, bleak whole leading to a beautiful, bleak ending. Although followed by a very good sequel, The Fly stands on its own as one of the masterpieces of the genre." 

Author of review: Brandt Sponseller - Classic - Horrors.com

http://classic-horror.com/reviews/fly_1986

"For a while Goldblum's quirkiness (as teleportation master Seth Brundle) keeps the movie afloat, but as he sinks irrevocably into his fly suit, everything else sinks with him. "

Author of review: Pat Graham - rotten tomatoes/ chicago reader

http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1007602-fly/

"Instead of the undoubtedly corny yet iconic design of the original, Goldblum’s transformation is subtle. It’s slow, working on his body, his mind, and eventually his entire person. His romance with Davis becomes critical to his change, allowing the audience to see his pain and madness as the transformation engulfs him. Goldblum captures this flawlessly."
Author of review: Matt Paprocki - Doblu.com
http://www.doblu.com/2009/06/14/the-fly-1986-review/