Altered States

About This Movie

So, Altered States is a remake of Ken Russell’s original from 1980, but it takes a different spin on the psychological horror and sci-fi themes. The atmosphere feels thick, almost claustrophobic at times, especially with the intense practical effects that dive deep into the characters’ subconscious. The pacing can be a bit erratic, which might throw some viewers off, but it kind of adds to the surreal experience it aims for. Performances are strong, with the lead really embodying that descent into madness. There’s a serious exploration of identity and consciousness that’s hard to ignore, which, in my opinion, makes it distinct in the sci-fi horror genre.

This remake has generated a fair bit of collector interest, particularly due to its association with the 1980 original. Formats can be a bit scattered; there are various DVD releases and some limited Blu-ray editions that pop up from time to time. The scarcity of certain editions, especially those with extra features or commentary, can drive some collectors to hunt them down. Overall, it sits in an interesting spot within the genre, appealing to those who appreciate the evolution of horror and sci-fi.