Review Of The Movie: Altered States (1980)

Altered States is a thought-provoking, psychedelic thriller that explores the line between reality and the unknown. Directed by Ken Russell and released in 1980, the film has been regarded as a cult classic for its bold visual effects, deep philosophical themes, and stunning performances by its cast.

The movie follows the journey of Eddie Jessup, a brilliant and ambitious scientist played by William Hurt. Jessup becomes obsessed with discovering the origin of human consciousness, and his experiments lead him on a wild and dangerous journey into the unknown.

The film opens with Jessup’s first experiment, where he takes a psychedelic drug and plunges himself into a sensory deprivation tank. In this altered state, he experiences vivid hallucinations that leave him questioning his sanity. Despite the risks, Jessup becomes increasingly determined to push the boundaries of his research, leading him down a path that threatens to consume him completely.

One of the most striking aspects of Altered States is the visual effects, which were groundbreaking for their time. Russell uses a mix of practical effects and trippy, dream-like sequences to bring Jessup’s hallucinations to life. From his transformation into a primitive, apelike creature to his encounter with an Aztec deity, the imagery in this film is both beautiful and unsettling. The vivid colors and distorted shapes create a sense of disorientation, leaving the audience feeling just as lost and confused as Jessup himself.

But Altered States is more than just a visual spectacle. At its core, it’s a film about the human condition and the quest for knowledge. Jessup’s search for the origin of consciousness is a metaphor for our own search for meaning in life. His experiments push the limits of what we know to be true, but they also reveal the dangers of unchecked ambition. Jessup’s obsession with his work drives him to the brink of insanity, and he risks losing everything he holds dear in the process.

William Hurt delivers a stunning performance as Eddie Jessup. He portrays the character’s descent into madness with a quiet intensity that is both captivating and unnerving. Hurt’s ability to convey complex emotions with subtle facial expressions and body language is truly remarkable. He is supported by a talented cast that includes Blair Brown as Jessup’s wife, Emily, and Bob Balaban as his colleague, Arthur Rosenberg.

One of the most poignant moments in the film is when Jessup realizes the cost of his ambition. He has pushed himself too far, and he can no longer distinguish between reality and his hallucinations. In a heartbreaking scene, he begs Emily to leave him, knowing that he has become a danger to her and their family. It’s a powerful moment that highlights the film’s central theme: that the pursuit of knowledge comes with a heavy price.

Altered States is not without its flaws. The pacing can be slow at times, and some of the special effects haven’t aged well. But these minor quibbles are outweighed by the film’s strengths. The bold visual style, thought-provoking themes, and outstanding performances make Altered States a must-see for fans of sci-fi and psychological thrillers.

In conclusion, Altered States is a mesmerizing film that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. Its exploration of the human psyche and the dangers of unchecked ambition is just as relevant today as it was in 1980. Russell’s direction, combined with a strong script and outstanding performances, makes for a film that is both beautiful and haunting. If you’re looking for a mind-bending, visually stunning film that will leave you questioning your own reality, Altered States is a must-see.