David Cronenberg

[Stranger Than Paradise]

For me, Cronenberg does not get the recognition he deserves. He is a genius in my opinion. A director I hold in similar regard, Mr. David Lynch is praised the world over by lovers of art house cinema, but I feel Cronenberg deserves similar acclaim. Films such as Videodrome and Dead Ringers are masterpieces. The effect that Cronenberg has on an audience is a world away from anything Hollywood would permit. He is not this kind of director.

Anyway, leading on to his connection with leftism are two of his films which I feel have very progressive messages. They are Videodrome and Shivers. Videodrome is a critique of the media and it's indoctrination of the masses. Shivers is a critique of American consumerism.

[Pogue]

plus his name sounds like a brand of beer

[x359594]

For me, his masterpieces are Crash and The History of Violence, but I agree that the other movies you cited are outstanding.

[Stranger Than Paradise]

I would have Crash and History Of Violence in my top five. Crash really is unique. Of course a lot of people won't like it but it is amazing in my opinion. It is the perfect exhibit of Cronenberg's cinema, just the way he makes you feel. A lot of Cronenberg's films feature diseases infecting people, and this is exactly how he wants YOU the viewer to feel.