Brainstorm (1983)

Director: Douglas Trumbull
Starring: Christopher Walken, Natalie Wood, Louise Fletcher

Synopsis:
Researchers develop technology that allows them to record and play back people's thoughts and experiences, but unintended consequences emerge as people start to push the boundaries.

Impressions:
Apparently this movie was going to be much more experimental, but the studio wasn't willing to give director Douglas Trumbull the free rein he needed to make that happen. As it stands, this remains a decent thriller that pokes around at some heavy themes. This happened to be Natalie Wood's final film, which is perhaps one of the main reasons it's noteworthy. I feel like more could've been done to push the mindbending aspect of the technology, but instead we're teased with some surrealism that doesn't quite go far enough. Don't expect much of anything in the way of action. It's a rather slow-paced film and some people may find it a bit on the obtuse side. If things like virtual reality and shared consciousness interest you, you may find it a worthwhile experience. Consider it.

Rating:
50/50