An unfortunate side-effect of the on-going pandemic is so many films slipping by without the chance to see them in theatre and going under the radar on streaming. One such film that I wish I saw in theatre is POSSESSOR, Brandon Cronenberg’s sophomore feature. A wonderful blend of science fiction and horror, the central premise may seem familiar, but the film brings a fresh perspective: Can you lose your sense of self by living the lives of others?
Lead actors Andrea Riseborough (MANDY) and Christopher Abbott (CATCH-22) never really share a scene together yet feel fully in sync throughout. There was a moment where the violence felt gratuitous but paid off immediately after. It’s still something to consider though for those who may be queasy by the sight of blood.
Cronenberg, who also wrote the screenplay, is the son of director David Cronenberg and I hope he continues to follow in his father’s footsteps with more wholly original films.
An uncut and unrated POSSESSOR is currently streaming on Hulu.
