The Anatomy of a Virus: The Making of Antiviral

In a near future where celebrity culture has reached grotesque new heights, people pay fortunes to be infected with the diseases that afflict their favorite stars. Syd, an anemic technician at a clinic that sells these viruses, takes on a dangerous job hunting down a deadly infection that threatens his favorite actress. He must navigate a sinister underworld where the line between idol and disease blurs.

Brandon Cronenberg's directorial debut, 'Antiviral,' garnered attention for its stylish, disturbing premise and unsettling atmosphere. While some critics praised its originality and chilling exploration of celebrity obsession and body horror, others found its narrative slow or its themes unsubtle. It achieved moderate recognition on the festival circuit and in niche genre circles.

• Praised for its unique and disturbing concept exploring celebrity worship.
• Noted for its stylish, unsettling visual aesthetic and strong atmosphere.
• Criticized by some for a deliberate pacing and a thematic approach that could feel heavy-handed.

Google audience: Audience reviews indicate a divided reception, with many appreciating the film's original and provocative premise. However, some viewers found the plot development too slow or the themes too explicit and lacking in nuance.

Screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival; Nominated for Best First Feature at the 2013 Canadian Screen Awards.

The film's concept of selling celebrity diseases was inspired by a news report Brandon Cronenberg read about a celebrity's personal trainer selling the celebrity's used gym equipment.