“Rabid” is a 1977 Canadian body horror film directed by David Cronenberg. The film is an early example of Cronenberg’s exploration of themes related to bodily transformation, disease, and the intersection of technology and the human body. Here are key details and a description of “Rabid”:
### Overview
– **Title**: “Rabid”
– **Director**: David Cronenberg
– **Writer**: David Cronenberg
– **Release Date**: April 8, 1977
– **Country**: Canada
– **Language**: English
– **Genre**: Science Fiction, Horror
### Plot Summary
The story centers around Rose (played by Marilyn Chambers), who, after a motorcycle accident, undergoes experimental plastic surgery at the hands of Dr. Dan Keloid (Howard Ryshpan) at the Keloid Clinic. The procedure involves the use of a new type of skin graft, which has unforeseen and horrifying consequences.
As Rose recovers, it becomes evident that the experimental surgery has resulted in a strange mutation. She develops a phallic stinger in an orifice under her armpit, which she uses to feed on the blood of her victims. Those she feeds on become infected with a rabies-like disease, turning them into aggressive, zombie-like creatures who spread the infection further.
The infection spreads rapidly, causing widespread panic and chaos. The authorities struggle to contain the outbreak as the city of Montreal descends into a state of emergency. Rose, unaware of the full extent of the chaos she is causing, continues her predatory behavior, moving through the city and leaving a trail of carnage.
The film culminates in a tragic and darkly ironic ending, where Rose, attempting to understand and control her condition, ultimately becomes a victim of the very epidemic she helped to create.
### Themes
1. **Body Horror**: “Rabid” is a quintessential body horror film, focusing on the themes of bodily transformation and infection. The horror arises from the physical changes in Rose’s body and the uncontrollable spread of the disease.
2. **Medical Ethics and Experimentation**: The film raises questions about the ethics of experimental medical procedures and the unforeseen consequences of tampering with human biology.
3. **Disease and Contagion**: “Rabid” explores the fear of disease and contagion, reflecting societal anxieties about epidemics and the loss of control in the face of a rapidly spreading infection.
4. **Sexuality and Violence**: The film intertwines themes of sexuality and violence, particularly through Rose’s method of transmitting the disease, which has a disturbing sexual undertone.
### Style and Reception
– **Visuals and Special Effects**: “Rabid” features practical special effects that contribute to the film’s unsettling atmosphere. The transformation of Rose and the infected victims is depicted with gruesome and visceral detail.
– **Performance**: Marilyn Chambers, known primarily for her work in adult films, delivers a compelling performance as Rose, capturing both her vulnerability and predatory nature. Her casting was unconventional but added a unique dimension to the character.
– **Critical Reception**: Upon its release, “Rabid” received mixed reviews but was commercially successful, especially in the exploitation film circuit. Over time, it has gained recognition as an important work in Cronenberg’s filmography and the body horror genre.
### Legacy
“Rabid” is now considered a cult classic and an influential film in the horror genre. It solidified David Cronenberg’s reputation as a master of body horror and a filmmaker unafraid to explore controversial and provocative themes. The film’s exploration of infection, medical ethics, and bodily transformation has continued to resonate with audiences and critics alike.
In summary, “Rabid” is a seminal body horror film that delves into themes of medical experimentation, disease, and bodily mutation. Directed by David Cronenberg, it remains a significant and influential work in his career and in the horror genre, known for its disturbing imagery and thought-provoking narrative.
