Monday 20 June 2011

The Terminal Man


George Segal stars as Harry Benson in Mike Hodges' 'The Terminal Man' (1974). Benson is a brilliant computer scientist who suffers from Acute Disinhibitory Lesion syndrome, which causes him to undergo violent seizures. A group of scientists attempt to control Benson's behaviour by implanting electrodes in his brain - with disastrous consequences.

'The Terminal Man' is a disquieting film, defined as much by its sombre mood and subtle characterisation as by its (somewhat dated) messages about mind control and scientific ambition. Recommended for its sustained tone and interesting visual style.