Happy Halloween movie goers from around the globe. Today’s review is an ‘80s horror cult classic.
Inspired by picking up radio signals in Buffalo, New York, during his childhood, David Cronenberg wrote a treatment titled, “Network of Blood.” It’s about a guy named, Max Renn who runs a television station which broadcasts pornographic movies. Max finds a television network broadcasting from an unknown country. In an attempt to boost viewership by airing realistic depictions of torture, Max discovers something sinister within the Betamax tapes. Thanks to the huge success of “Scanners,” David retitled Network of Blood as “Videodrome” adding more material. Universal Pictures helped financed his project. James Woods signed on to lead the film.
Released in 1983, (same year Scarface came out) it received polarized reviews from critics and was a commercial flop. Overtime, Videodrome gained a cult following earning praise by horror fans. David Cronenberg’s work on body horror influenced similar films including “The Substance,” “Slither,” and recent Batman villain film, “Clayface.” I highly recommend checking out the latter. Speaking of body horror, David Cronenberg’s “The Fly” is getting a standalone follow-up. As of late 2026, no release date confirmed.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving you a chance to see this cult classic gem.
Clean & Messy Qualities
Clean: James Woods & Deborah Harry (lead singer of Blonde) both did a good job for their respective performances.
David Cronenberg did a decent job directing.
Scare Factor has some legit scary moments. They’ll make you queasy. I advise you not to eat a huge meal. If you do, you’re gonna vomit.
Death Scenes are brutal and not for the faint of heart.
Howard Shore (The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Fly, The Silence of the Lambs) orchestrated the soundtrack.
Rick Baker (An American Werwolf in London, The Nutty Professor, Men In Black 1-3) worked on Practical Effects and Prosthetic Makeup. They still hold up for a 1983 film. Again, don’t eat a huge meal. Otherwise, you’ll vomit like it’s no tomorrow.
Cinematography’s shot in good condition lacking technical problems.
Pacing felt natural for an 89-minute film. my eyes were glued to the screen.
Primary Themes are Mass Media, Perception, Manipulation, Delusion & Reality. Each one’s handled maturely.
Character Development involving Max. As the film progresses, he begins to experience paranoia.
All of the deleted footage from the theatrical cut are retained in the Criterion Collection. Additional blood and nudity. This is definitely not for the whole family. In the words of Adult Swim Action announcer, “Put the kids to bed and get ready to get down.”
The Ending will keep you guessing. You know, open to interpretation. One heck of a mind screw.
Fun Facts
- The Criterion Collection released the film on DVD in 2004 as spine #248. Later re-released on Blu-Ray in 2010. Criterion packaged a a slipcover of a Betamax tape.
- If you own a DVD/Blu-Ray copy, there are two audio commentaries. One by Mr. Cronenberg, the other by Mr. Woods and Ms. Harry.
- David turned down the opportunity to direct “Return of the Jedi” in favor of directing his pet project.
- DVD/Blu-Ray contains David’s short film, “Camera” as a bonus feature.
Messy: Given that the film was made in the early ‘80s, it’s quite dated.
The Final Verdict: A-
Despite one drawback, I really enjoyed Videodrome. If you’re into body horror flicks or a Criterion loyalist, order a copy on Amazon or go to your local Barnes and Noble bookstore. Which body horror movies should I watch and review next? Please leave a comment and don’t forget to subscribe.
