David Cronenberg’s favourite horror movie
David Cronenberg is one of the defining directors of horror cinema. His unique vision for how body horror movies can operate outside of the shock and awe of their subject matter has seen him carve out a niche in the realm of Hollywood. His distinct brand of psychological pictures has ensured that he sits atop the pile of directors dedicated to the genre.
A Canadian, Cronenberg’s career has far outlived most of his compatriots who have travelled south toward Tinseltown. His career spans over five decades, and he is celebrated for his unconventional storytelling and exploration of the human psyche.
Videodrome and The Fly would be rightly considered some of the finest works in the genre, and both come with Croneneberg’s name attached. The movies established him as a master of the grotesque, seamlessly blending visceral body transformations with thought-provoking narratives.
While his filmography is dotted with dramatic pieces, too, the likes of Dead Ringers and Eastern Promises showcase his versatility and ability to navigate various themes. Horror is where Cronenberg is most notably revered. So, when asked to pick his favourite horror movie while appearing on the Konbini YouTube channel, it was an answer we were all waiting for.
“This was a movie that really stunned me. I was really very impressed by it,” said Cronenberg when speaking on Nicolas Roeg’s unique 1973 tale Don’t Look Now. The movie, based on an adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s novel of the same name, has been routinely cited as a pioneering moment in the development of the horror genre. Starring Julie Christie and Donald Sutherland, the film explores grief, precognition, and the supernatural. Roeg’s innovative editing and atmospheric cinematography contribute to the film’s enduring impact, making it a classic in the horror genre.
“Just a very, very strong movie,” the director continued when asked to evaluate why he held it in such high regard. “Very strange. Very much about death, but at first you’re not aware that that’s really the subject matter. It’s really a love story, but it’s really a love story about love and death.”
It’s not just a favourite of the genre, but can be considered one of the director’s favourite overall movies: “Just recently someone said, ‘Tell me a movie that is one of your favourite movies,’ which is very hard to do because there are hundreds of movies that I love. But I did say Don’t Look Now.”
