Watch Antiviral

Antiviral is a 2012 science-fiction thriller movie that explores an unusual concept surrounding celebrity culture. It was written and directed by Brandon Cronenberg, the son of David Cronenberg, who is known for his avant-garde and often disturbing movies. The movie is set in a dystopian society where people are obsessed with the lives of the rich and famous. One company called Lucas Clinic that dominates the industry by selling injections of celebrity viruses to their fan base. This new trend involves infecting oneself with the same viruses that celebrities have in order to feel closer to them, emotionally and physically. Caleb Landry Jones plays Syd March, a young salesman who works for the Lucas Clinic. He develops relationships with clients by administering these viruses, but what his clients don't know is that the viruses are sold on the black market by Syd's employer, and in some instances celebrities will sell and infect themselves with their own viruses. Syd March's life is turned upside down when he becomes involved with a celebrity named Hannah Geist (played by Sarah Gadon). However, she soon becomes terminally ill with a virus, and Syd injects himself with the same virus to sell it on the black market. He then becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse with both the Lucas Clinic and other characters who are trying to get their hands on the virus. Throughout the film, issues of obsession, the nature of fame, and the commodification of human life are explored. The film also uses a lot of cold, sterile environments to create a sense of isolation and dehumanization. The camera work and lighting is very reminiscent of David Cronenberg's earlier work, with lots of close-ups and slow shots. Lisa Berry also stars in the movie as a character named Arvid, who is a nurse at the Lucas Clinic. Her character provides an outside perspective on the celebrity virus fever and its effect on society. Overall, Antiviral is an interesting and thought-provoking movie which provides a commentary on modern society's fascination with celebrity culture. The characters are intriguing, and the plot has enough twists and turns to keep audiences engaged throughout the film. While it might not be suitable for everyone's sensibilities, the movie is definitely worth watching for people interested in dark, offbeat science-fiction tales.