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``The Fly'' This is how Cronenberg's terrifying and sad masterpiece was born!
2020.01.09
Cronenberg continued to spread his wings even in the foreign land of Hollywood.
Jeff Goldblum, who plays Seth, and Geena Davis, who plays Veronica, had everything this movie needed. Both were tall and had a strong presence on screen. They were also lovers in real life, so their chemistry in front of the camera was impeccable. They had no hesitation in doing nude love scenes. However, because they were so close, Cronenberg had to keep them apart in some scenes.
But that was a minor issue for Cronenberg, who, despite being made with Hollywood funding, shot the film in a low-cost studio in his native Canada, where he was able to assemble a team of talented, familiar crew members he'd worked with many times before, including cinematographer Mark Irwin.
"The Fly" (c)Getty Images
Cronenberg, who should be behind the camera, also ended up standing in front of it as an actor. This was his first appearance in one of his own films, following " Seabre " and " Videodrome " (1983). His character was an obstetrician-gynecologist. There is a story behind this. It was when the genius Martin Scorsese, who had seen Cronenberg's previous work, met with him. Scorsese said that his impression of Cronenberg was "like a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon." Inspired by this, Cronenberg decided to wear a medical uniform in front of the camera.
Among the talented staff, the most highly praised was the special makeup by Chris Walas and Stephane Dupuis. Seth's appearance, assimilated with the flies, changes horribly every time he appears. Stiff hairs sticking out as if bursting through his skin, peeling claws, blistering skin, and a transformation at the climax that makes it hard to believe he is a creature from this world. The meticulous visualization of this process of mutation led to the special makeup by the Academy Award for Best Makeup.