In the realm of horror cinema, few names carry as much weight as David Cronenberg. The acclaimed director, screenwriter, and occasional actor is known for his ability to create unsettling and gory films that challenge the boundaries of the genre. However, in a recent interview with The Guardian, Cronenberg revealed that he sees his movies in a different light.
Contrary to popular belief, Cronenberg does not view his films as purely horrific. Instead, he sees them as infused with humor. While acknowledging that not everything in his movies is funny, Cronenberg believes that humor plays a significant role in his work. He challenges the misconception that his imagination is solely focused on horror and explains that his inspiration comes from a variety of sources beyond his own mind.
According to Cronenberg, true horrors can be found in the real world, particularly in news reports and newspapers. He even points to a surprising example to illustrate his point - the classic Disney film, Bambi. As a child, Cronenberg found the scene where Bambi's mother is killed to be terrifying. He argues that the emotional impact of that moment qualifies as true horror, even if it may not fit the traditional genre conventions.
Continuing his exploration of what scares him, Cronenberg recalls two other films that left a lasting impact on him. The first is 'Blue Lagoon,' a movie from his childhood that portrayed the eerie story of children stranded on an island after their parents drown. Cronenberg vividly remembers a scene in a cave with a snake and a skeleton, finding it genuinely frightening during his younger years.
The second film on Cronenberg's list is 'Don't Look Now,' directed by Nic Roeg and starring Julie Christie and Donald Sutherland. Cronenberg praises the film's mastery of anticipation and its palpable sense of impending death, highlighting its effectiveness in evoking fear.
As the interview reveals, the notion of what constitutes a truly scary movie varies from person to person, even for a seasoned horror maestro like Cronenberg. His choices showcase an eclectic mix of childhood terrors, unsettling moments, and expert storytelling that has left a lasting impression on the director.
While some may debate the classification of Cronenberg's films as horror, one cannot deny their ability to captivate and disturb audiences. Whether you view them as terrifying or darkly humorous, his body of work remains a testament to his unique artistic vision and exceptional talent.
