The tyranist's thoughts
I haven't seen even half as many David Cronenberg films as I sometimes think I should have, but maybe I can make it up a little here. I had overlooked this one for far too long especially when you consider the respect I have for Jeff Goldblum. Okay, I'm the only person you'll ever hear say that, but it is accurate.
You know this story. It's been referenced a billion times and since it is a remake of an even older movie, the particular memes from it have been floating around in our culture for a long time. The idea of teleportation is wonderful and has been used often in science fiction. There are even very good stories that ask some of the same questions as this one. One of the primary differences lies in the fact that when Cronenberg asks the question, you know the answer is unlikely to be quite as you expected.
The movie felt both too long and too short. I found myself getting impatient with it as the plot was so slowly developed, but when the climax hit, the end was only seconds later. There was almost no denouement and I really wanted some. I realize that there is a sequel, but I also believe that the sequel will provide little in the way of resolution for the first movie. It appears to have been a money grubbing venture in the traditional '80s sequel style. More on that later when I actually get around to reviewing it.
The Fly makeup was really very good, and I loved Goldblum's performance. Geena Davis was even tolerable although the frequent hints at nudity and eventualy complete lack thereof was quite frustrating. I found the very small cast to be an interesting choice, but it also managed to increase the level of paranoia in the movie and gave some credence to the Brundle character.
This is definitely on the list of must see movies, but I'm not quite sure it is high on that list. I found it to be an interesting endeavor with a few very effective moments, but was left somewhat unsatisfied in the end.