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Shivers poster

Shivers (1975)

1975 • 1h 28m • Horror, Science Fiction • R
On September 20, 2026
#8183393
8183rd by attention movie online
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John Chard on Shivers

7.5/10 · Nov 17, 2013

Disease is the love of two creatures for one and other. Shivers was written and directed by David Cronenberg, and features Fred Doederlin, Paul Hampton, Lynn Lowry, and Barbara Steele in the cast. Ivan Reitman composed the music, and Robert Saad handled the cinematography. The Starliner Island Complex in Montreal unexpectedly becomes infested with parasitic organisms that transform human hosts into flesh-eating sexual predators. Cronenberg’s initial effort to reach a wider audience has been subjected to excessive analysis over time because of his later work as a Canadian filmmaker. Attempts have been made to find deeper meanings and intentions within Shivers, trying to give it greater significance. It really doesn't require that level of intense thought, but what Shivers is, at its core, is an entertaining, low-budget horror film—a movie displaying flashes of Cronenberg’s signature style, demonstrating how he began his career. The depiction of ordinary people suddenly transformed into sexually charged individuals without restraint makes it easy to understand why the film generated some controversy when it was first released. However, that kind of publicity can be beneficial, and now it seems more playful than an attempt to genuinely shock viewers. That’s not to say there’s no horror present—the striking opening sequence proves this—but there's a deliberate lightness to the movie, even as the director explores sensitive topics through visual storytelling. The acting is generally substandard, the sound mix isn’t quite right, and some of the dialogue feels incredibly cheesy, but Shivers still manages to earn considerable respect. It holds an important place in horror cinema because of its director, allowing viewers to recognize characteristics that would define his future work. Watching it also prompts a consideration of the current state of horror, with sequels, remakes, and predictable slasher films dominating theaters; we could certainly benefit from another young filmmaker emerging with Cronenberg’s unique vision. One can only hope for such a thing. 7.5/10

Source on TMDB

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