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Possessor (2020): SciFi Body Horror Done Right

Film Synopsis

Possessor (2020) follows an elite corporate assassin who uses brain-implant technology to take control of other people’s bodies to carry out high-profile hits. As she takes on a new assignment, she begins to lose grip on her own identity and struggles to maintain control of her latest host. As the line between her own consciousness and that of her target blurs, she must confront the consequences of her increasingly unstable mind.

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Reasons to Watch

With “Possessor” you’ll find that Brandon Cronenberg is carving out his own niche in the world of highbrow body horror, following in the footsteps of his famous father, David Cronenberg. The apple certainly doesn’t fall far from the tree, as the younger Cronenberg demonstrates a keen eye for unsettling visuals and thought-provoking concepts.

One of the most impressive aspects of “Possessor” is how unique the body-switching concept feels throughout the film. You’ll be drawn into the disturbing sci-fi premise of brain implant assassinations, with an immense amount of detail that makes the technology feel eerily plausible. The body horror elements are executed precisely, delivering visceral and memorable moments that will stick with you long after the credits roll. As you watch, you’ll notice the cold, deliberate style in which the film is shot, peppered with surreal and dreamy imagery that adds to the overall sense of unease. While “Possessor” stands on its own merits, you might find yourself drawing comparisons to other mind-bending films like “Inception” and “Looper”.