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Scanners
1981 103 min Canada R 16+
★6.7
Science Fiction, Horror
Director: David Cronenberg
Trailers
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Description
A scientist trains a man with an advanced telepathic ability called 'scanning' to stop a dangerous Scanner with extraordinary psychic powers from waging war against non-Scanners.
Budget:
$4.1M
US Gross:
$14.23M
Worldwide:
$14.23M
Starring
Jennifer O'Neill
Actor
Stephen Lack
Actor
Patrick McGoohan
Actor
Awards
Saturn Awards 1981
— Best International Feature Film
Saturn Awards 1981
— Best Makeup and Hairstyling
Saturn Awards 1981
— Best Visual Effects
Key opinion
David Cronenberg's 'Scanners' is widely regarded as a cult science-fiction classic that balances body-horror spectacle with a premise of telepathic corporate intrigue. While Michael Ironside's villainous performance is universally praised, audiences remain divided over whether the film's lean, action-oriented narrative is an effective thriller or an underdeveloped, sluggish experience.
| Acting | Michael Ironside delivers an iconic and menacing performance as the primary antagonist. | |
| Production | Practical makeup and gore effects, particularly the exploding head sequence, serve as the film's most memorable visual highlights. | |
| Direction | Cronenberg's direction maintains a tense and dynamic atmosphere that keeps the film engaging despite budget constraints. | |
| Acting | Performances from lead actors Stephen Lack and Jennifer O'Neill are viewed as lacking sufficient emotional range or charisma. | |
| Pacing | The pacing is highly divisive, with some viewers finding the narrative sluggish and tedious while others appreciate the contemplative, thriller-focused tempo. | |
| Screenplay | Opinions on the screenplay are split between those who value its straightforward, accessible sci-fi premise and those who find the plot hollow, pretentious, or lacking in logical explanation. |