Videodrome: Studies in the Horror Film

by Tim Lucas

Released in 1983, David Cronenberg's Videodrome is one of his most original and provocative works, fusing social commentary with shocking elements of sex and violence. Crossing the boundary between science fiction, horror, and social criticism, Videodrome remains a unique and brilliant work in the oeuvre of cinema's greatest maverick. Tim Lucas had behind-the-scenes access to every facet of production when Videodrome was filmed in 1981. His unique perspective provides interviews with cast and crew, including exclusive, never-before-published interviews with Cronenberg, commentary and analysis of the film, and over sixty black-and-white and color photographs, many never before seen. Videodrome is the first in the Studies in the Horror Film series, which aims to present critical and popular discussion of the great horror films in affordable, attractive packages. Tim Lucas is the editor of Video Watchdog magazine, which specializes in critical discussions of popular and obscure horror, fantasy, and science fiction films. He is also a renowned and astute film critic and award-winning writer.

Genres: Film, Media Tie In

144 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2007

Reviews

[Bob Fingerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Color me jealous. Back when the magic was happening, young journalist Tim Lucas connected with David Cronenberg (an idol of mine) and visited the set of Cronenberg's seminal slab of cinematic mind-fuckery "Videodrome". Lucas's visit was fairly protracted and over the course of it he met and interviewed all the key players both before and behind the camera. Anyone who is familiar with Lucas's very fine magazine, Video Watchdog, knows how thorough he is, and this book is a testament to his ability to absorb and regurgitate information in a compelling way. Maybe that sounds a bit gross, but in the context of a juicy, visceral film like "Videodrome" it seems apt.

[James Caterino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful, in depth analysis of the making one of my favorite films of all time. Videodrome was a huge influence on my books She and Video Noir.

A must own for Croneberg fans, this book is packed with behind the scenes information, interviews and great pictures. This makes a great companion piece to the outstanding Cronenberg on Cronenberg from the Faber&Faber director on director series.

Written by film scholar and genre expert extraordinaire Tim Lucas.

[Rick Powell · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great and in-depth study about this cult classic from the man that was there. Just reading about the special effects that Baker and his crew exhaustively created boggles the mind. Sadly, this film was not marketed well in it initial release, but it holds its place in the history of horror cinema and predicted how we interact as a society today with the advent and rise of the internet and home viewing. Highly recommended.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating wide-ranging look at all aspects of the making of Videodrome. Assuming you are interested in either moderate-budget film-making, the works of David Cronenberg or sci-fi/horror cinema, then this book is a great read.

The only thing that really mars this is some poor editing.

[Britta · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the most thorough dissections of a horror film, for one of the best horror films ever made, Tim Lucas' engrossing behind the scenes tale of Videodrome is entertaining in its own right. I wish one of these books existed for every horror movie I loved.

[Bryan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very much an on the set report. I would have enjoyed a more academic analysis of the film's themes.

[Jeff · Rating 3 out of 5]

A tad disappointing. While this is a great book about the making of Videodrome, I was hoping for a study on the subject matter in the film.