Naked Lunch [VHS]

Entering Interzone, the phantasmagorical land of junk, paranoia, and crawly things, as envisioned by William S. Burroughs, is the focus of this cinematic adaptation. The best travel advice, according to the author, is to "Exterminate all rational thought." In David Cronenberg's superbly shot and unnerving interpretation of the Burroughs novel, the novelist himself becomes a central character, portrayed in an implacable monotone by Peter Weller.

Cronenberg's film incorporates elements from Burroughs' life, including the shooting of his wife during a "William Tell" game, as well as the inclusion of his bohemian friends, Kerouac and Ginsberg, to frame the book's wild visions. This approach, though somewhat rational, is an ironic take on an otherwise unfilmable book. The result is a hair-curling double bill with Barton Fink, another exploration of writerly madness, with both films sharing the presence of Judy Davis.

Cronenberg, a natural fit for oozing mugwumps and typewriters that transform into giant bugs, has crafted his own vision of the artistic process, rather than a direct translation of Burroughs' hallucinatory descent into hell. The film's unnerving atmosphere and surreal imagery capture the essence of Burroughs' work, while Cronenberg's distinctive style and interpretation add a layer of complexity and personal reflection.

Ultimately, this cinematic interpretation of Interzone, with its blend of Burroughs' influence and Cronenberg's unique voice, offers a compelling and immersive experience for viewers, challenging their rational thought and inviting them to delve into the depths of artistic expression and the human psyche.

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