A controversial horror film that caused mass crowds to walk out during its first screening will air on BBC on Friday evening, May 2, 2025. The movie, titled Crimes of the Future, stars Kristen Stewart and Viggo Mortensen, and will be shown on BBC2 at 11 PM. However, it's not for the faint-hearted.
Dozens of viewers couldn't handle Crimes of the Future and had to leave the Cannes Film Festival screening. Despite the walkouts, the 2022 David Cronenberg film received a seven-minute round of applause and boasts an impressive 80% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The film includes a gory child autopsy scene, graphic shots of bloody intestines, and characters who orgasm by licking each other's open wounds. The synopsis reads: "As the human species adapts to a synthetic environment, the body undergoes new transformations and mutations."
Directed by the iconic David Cronenberg, the film marks his long-awaited return to body horror, which he last explored two decades ago. Notably, he shot the entire film in Greece, setting it in a 'not-too-distant future' where humans learn to adapt to their synthetic surroundings.
In the film, Saul Tenser, played by Mortensen, is a performance artist who publicly showcases the metamorphosis of his organs in avant-garde performances alongside his partner Caprice, portrayed by Léa Seydoux. Timlin, played by Stewart, is an investigator from the National Organ Registry who obsessively tracks their movements, leading to the revelation of a mysterious group. Their mission is to use Saul's notoriety to shed light on the next phase of human evolution.
Cronenberg previously addressed the uproar surrounding the walkouts, stating, "It doesn't make me sad. I mean, the worst thing is if your movie is boring, and I've been to some screenings in Cannes where nobody walked out, but nobody cared about the movie either. And that would be very depressing." His candid remarks highlight his commitment to provoking thought and discussion through his work.
The film's initial screening at Cannes was met with mixed reactions. While some critics praised its unsettling nature and artistic ambition, others found it difficult to digest. Cronenberg anticipated the walkouts, saying, "There are some very strong scenes. I mean, I'm sure that we will have walkouts within the first five minutes of the movie. I'm sure of that."
Despite the polarizing reception, Crimes of the Future has garnered attention for its ambitious exploration of themes related to trans-humanism and the evolution of the human body. Critics have described it as "hypnotic, maddening, pervy and disturbing," with one review noting that it expresses modern anxieties over technology in a uniquely captivating way.
In its consensus, Rotten Tomatoes noted Cronenberg's trademark "unsettling flair," while individual reviews highlighted the film's nightmarish imagery and philosophical depth. One critic remarked, "It may be more mystifying than illuminating when all is said and done, but it is certainly a uniquely captivating experience with wildly imaginative creations and challenging ideas."
As viewers prepare for the film's airing on BBC2, it remains to be seen how audiences will react to the graphic content and thought-provoking themes. For those who missed the live broadcast, the film will also be available to stream on BBC iPlayer shortly after its airing.
In the wake of its controversial premiere, Crimes of the Future stands as a testament to Cronenberg's enduring influence on the horror genre. Its exploration of body horror, combined with a narrative that challenges societal norms, positions it as a significant entry in contemporary cinema.
As the film airs tonight, viewers are reminded that it is not merely a gore-fest but a commentary on the human condition and the complexities of evolution in a synthetic world. The film's bold approach may not resonate with everyone, but it undoubtedly aims to provoke thought and ignite conversation.
Whether audiences find it an exhilarating experience or a disturbing ordeal, one thing is clear: Crimes of the Future is set to leave a lasting impression. As the clock strikes 11 PM, viewers across the UK will tune in to witness Cronenberg's daring vision unfold on their screens.
