In a surprising twist, an R-rated sci-fi thriller from 2009 has found new life on Max, captivating a fresh wave of fans. “Splice,” a dark and unsettling film, has climbed to the No. 9 spot on Max’s top-10 list, proving that some stories never truly fade away.
“Splice” delves into the perils of genetic engineering gone awry. The film follows two ambitious scientists, played by Adrien Brody and Sarah Polley, who push the boundaries of science by combining animal and human DNA. Their goal is to create hybrids for medical advancements, but their experiment spirals out of control, leading to horrifying consequences.
The movie presents a modern take on the classic Frankenstein narrative. The creature they create is not only desperate to escape its creators but also exhibits disturbing behaviors, including rapid skill development and predatory instincts. The creature’s interactions with its creators, including sexual encounters and gender changes, add layers of discomfort and complexity to the story.
Director Vincenzo Natali aimed to craft a film that was both shocking and believable. Initially conceived as a follow-up to his 1997 film “Cube,” “Splice” faced budgetary and technological challenges that delayed its production. However, when it finally hit theaters, it left a lasting impression, despite its box office struggles.
“Splice” had a production budget of $30 million but only managed to earn $27 million, falling short of financial success. Critics were divided, with some praising its intriguing premise and execution, while others dismissed it as one of the worst films of 2010. Despite this, the movie holds a 75% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes and a Certified Fresh rating, though audience reception was less favorable.
The film’s open ending left room for a sequel, but the poor box office performance extinguished any such plans. Nevertheless, “Splice” remains a beloved entry in the sci-fi horror genre. It garnered several awards and nominations, including the Telefilm Golden Box Office Award for being the highest-grossing Canadian movie in 2010 and a nomination for Best Science Fiction Film at the 37th Saturn Awards, though it lost to Christopher Nolan’s “Inception.”
The 2010s were a competitive era for horror films, with titles like “Orphan,” “Pandorum,” and “Drag Me to Hell” also vying for attention. Yet, “Splice” has managed to carve out its niche, attracting new viewers on Max who are discovering its dark allure.
For those intrigued by the blend of science fiction and horror, “Splice” is currently available for streaming on Max. Its resurgence on the platform is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted, thought-provoking cinema.
