Review of The Fly (1986) by Kenr — 21 Aug 2020

Have to admit not liking this version of The Fly, it relied too much on the gore aspects of the story. But I do recall a friend lending me a B/W copy of the 1958 version of this infamous movie way back.

I also seem to recall the earlier version may have been banned in Australia for some horror elements? (eloquently done by today’s standards). So when I saw an ad for a re-mastered DVD in vivid color, it just had to be ordered.

I suppose it had to be expected that a story like this, made in 1958, might just not hold up too well over the years. This outrageous story was given a lush 20th Century Fox production (complete with a ballet scene!) and also made a lot of money – it had an interesting original story and a neat screenplay by Australian novelist and filmmaker James Clavell - but our understanding of the science and movie making styles have simply changed so much! What was left of the memory of its story has sadly become somewhat laughable.

The print transfer to DVD is nothing short of a visual delight, with lovely color, clear images and sound, but oh the acting (except Herbert Marshall) and situations now probably make it a must for the send-up buffs.

Patricia Owens is pretty but no great actress and the eloquently voiced Vincent Price looks uncomfortable and hammy in his co-star part. The disc has been treated to a commentary which must rate as one of the worst of its type.

Perhaps some things are best left to memory... BUT have to admit, the final scene of the fly in the garden still has a chilling impact! View either version at your own peril.