Review of The Brain

Mind Control is the topic and basic premise of this low-grade sociological study/campy horror film from director, Ed Hunt (Bloody Birthday). A thought provoking but muddled metaphor for the brainwashing effects of Scientology, T.V. marketing propaganda and other pseudo-scientific religious hogwash is at times unintentionally laughable for its cheesy portrayal of a giant brain with teeth that murders people after subjecting them to a series of hallucinations brought on by a mad doctor played by the straight-faced, hammy, David Gale. (He was the hilarious talking severed head from 'Re-Animator'). Fans will enjoy seeing Gale as the maniacal genius who hosts a television show that tricks people into thinking that they are "independent" and "individuals" all the while they are just experimental guinea pigs and food for "The Brain" creature. This is obviously a statement on a conformist society, but it falls short due to erratic direction and some pretentious overacting. Although, Tom Bresnahan makes for a good character. He's paranoid but intelligent, and he seems to be the only one that is on to the crooked intentions of Dr. Blake which makes for an interesting battle of wits. The brain creature is typically ridiculous 80s cheese as it swallows up hopeless idiot victims in its wake. Non-conformist horror fans will get some enjoyment out of this mess, and Gale's Re-Animator tribute scene is a real hoot, and the sodium washroom brain-exploding sequence is just too funny for words. Its not-so-bad if you're in the mood.