The Brood (1979) Review in 2025
A psychological horror film about a woman who seeks revenge against her ex-husband through a mysterious cult.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to graphic violence, gore, and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
Recommended for fans of horror and psychological thrillers. However, viewer discretion is advised due to graphic violence and mature themes.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film revolves around Nola Carveth, a woman who seeks revenge against her ex-husband, Frank, through a mysterious cult called the 'Brood'. The cult, led by a mysterious figure known as Nourish, uses a strange form of mind control to manipulate its members, including Nola's children, into committing violent acts against Frank. As Nola's obsession with revenge grows, she becomes increasingly unhinged, leading to a descent into madness and terror.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a unique and unsettling premise. However, the plot twists and turns can be confusing at times, and some viewers may find the pacing to be slow.
acting8.00/10
The acting is solid, with Oliver Reed and Candy Clark delivering standout performances. However, some viewers may find the acting to be a bit wooden at times.
characters7.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Nola being a particularly interesting and nuanced character. However, some viewers may find the supporting characters to be underdeveloped.
direction9.00/10
David Cronenberg's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a sense of atmosphere that is unmatched. He expertly builds tension and suspense, creating a sense of unease that is hard to shake.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a blend of dark and muted colors that creates a sense of unease and foreboding. The use of lighting is also noteworthy, adding to the overall sense of tension and suspense.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Unique premise, masterful direction, excellent cinematography, and standout performances.
Cons
Confusing plot twists, underdeveloped supporting characters, and graphic violence.
Notable Quotes
"'The brood is a manifestation of the unconscious mind.'"
"'You're not a mother, you're a monster.'"
