Crimes of the Future

In a distant future where humanity has adapted to a synthetic environment, people undergo radical surgeries and augmentations, often to meet new biological needs. Saul Tenser, a performance artist, publicly showcases the metamorphosis of his organs in avant-garde shows. As the line between pain and pleasure blurs, a mysterious new group emerges with their own agenda regarding human evolution, forcing Tenser to confront his past and the future of his species.

David Cronenberg's return to body horror was met with a polarized reception, with many praising its distinctive vision and unsettling themes, while others found it excessively grim and difficult to engage with. It was particularly noted for its return to the director's signature style after a decade-long absence from the genre.

• Praised for its unsettling atmosphere and thought-provoking exploration of transhumanism.

• Critiqued for its slow pace and opaque narrative.

• Recognized as a quintessential Cronenbergian work, though divisive among audiences.

Google audience: Google users generally found the film to be visually striking and thematically rich, appreciating its exploration of futuristic body modification and artistic expression. However, some reviewers expressed a desire for a more straightforward plot and found the graphic content challenging.

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival.

The film's depiction of 'Accelerated Evolution Syndrome' was inspired by the real-world phenomenon of people developing new allergies and sensitivities in response to environmental changes.