Signed and Scanned: Naked Lunch by David Cronenberg
Those familiar with David Cronenberg’s films might think he would be weird or unapproachable in person, but descriptions like that couldn’t be further from the truth. He’s been intelligent, charismatic and engaging on both occasions I’ve seen him, even making an effort to hang around and chat with most anyone who’s interested. The first time I heard Cronenberg speak about his films I’d hardly seen any of them, which left me feeling a little intimidated by the whole thing. I’ve since gotten more up to speed, and a second time seeing Cronenberg gave me an even greater appreciation for him and his work.
If you get the opportunity to see him in person, particularly after a screening or in conversation, I’d definitely recommend going and even sticking around for a few minutes afterward. Though Videodrome remains my favorite Cronenberg film, I thought the Naked Lunch DVD would look better signed. See for yourself:
Gracias Señor Clyde!
To be honest, what first drew me to “Naked Lunch” was the cover, so kudos to Criterion. The idea of a typewriter-head is such a novel (hehe) visual representation of the writing mindset, and it also fits with Cronenberg’s own ideas about metamorphosis… like the typewriter (and the computer I’m typing on for that matter) is an extension of the human body and is therefore an evolutionary adaptation. It’s the same thing as our biological ability to speak; the form (mode of discourse) has changed but the purpose (communication) is the same.
From what I’ve heard of Cronenberg, it would be fun to meet him, and his commentaries are some of the few I like. I remember hearing him talk about how he could do a thousand commentaries for the same film and each one would be completely different! It seems like he’s pretty open about interpretations with his work too.
What did you think of “Naked Lunch” anyway? I noticed it was absent from your 90s list.
That cover image is from the theatrical poster, but at least Criterion had sense enough to use it. I’d agree it gets your attention.
I wonder if Naked Lunch might be a good point of separation between two levels of Cronenberg fandom. It lost me, and I can’t say I’m anxious to revisit it (though when I do listening to the commentary might very well be a good idea). The film just goes too deep into its own recesses for my taste. It’s obviously a different kind of sci-fi and horror film, but those aren’t genres I’ve ever followed so, again, the connection isn’t there for me. I do like some of the metaphorical aspects in it.