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• Sci-fi
• Thriller

• 1980
• David Cronenberg
• 98 mins
• X

Summary

A man with dangerous psychic powers is recruited by a sinister corporation to infiltrate and destroy an underground movement led by a fanatical renegade telepath intent on taking over the world. David Cronenberg's sci-fi thriller, starring Stephen Lack, Patrick McGoohan, Michael Ironside and Jennifer O'Neill

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Review

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

John Ferguson

Evil Michael Ironside and derelict Stephen Lack are the leaders of two rival groups of telepaths - or "scanners" - in this cult classic from David Cronenberg, in which he seamlessly blends the genres of science fiction and conspiracy thriller into an exhilarating ride. While the stunning (and occasionally stomach-churning) set pieces, such as the exploding heads, and the final apocalyptic battle will delight genre fans, it's Cronenberg's fascination with the horrors lurking within the human body and our inability to control them that provides the real interest in this landmark movie.

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6.7/10

How to watch

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Streaming

• Prime Video
• Sky Store

Credits

Cast

rolenameCameron ValeStephen LackKim ObristJennifer O'NeillDr Paul RuthPatrick McGoohanBraedon KellerLawrence DaneGaudiChuck ShamataArno CrosticAdam LudwigDarryl RevokMichael IronsideDr GatineauVictor DesyTrevellyanMavor MooreBenjamin PierceRobert Silverman

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Crew

rolenameDirectorDavid Cronenberg

Details

Theatrical distributor

New Realm Entertainments

Released on

1981-04-23

Languages

English

Guidance

Contains violence and some swearing.

Available on

video and DVD

Formats

Colour

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