Behind The Scenes: Jeff Goldblum And The Fly's Revised Conclusion

Axel S�rensen

4 min read

Post on May 06, 2025

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The Original Ending of The Fly: A Tragic Masterpiece

The original ending of The Fly is a visceral and heartbreaking depiction of Brundle's horrifying transformation. We witness his complete physical deterioration, a grotesque merging of man and insect, culminating in a desperate plea for Veronica (Geena Davis) to end his suffering.

• Visual Horror: Cronenberg masterfully uses practical effects to showcase Brundle's horrifying transformation, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. The visual decay is a key element of the film's body horror aesthetic.
• Goldblum's Performance: Goldblum's performance in this scene is nothing short of breathtaking. He conveys Brundle's agony and despair with raw vulnerability, making the tragic ending profoundly moving.
• Thematic Resonance: The original ending powerfully underscores the film's central themes of scientific hubris, the dangers of unchecked ambition, and the profound loneliness of isolation. It's a stark warning against tampering with nature's delicate balance.
• Critical Acclaim: Critics lauded the original ending for its unflinching depiction of horror and its emotional resonance, solidifying The Fly's place as a landmark film in the body horror genre. The tragic ending contributed significantly to the film's critical success and lasting impact.

The Revised Ending: A Different Perspective

While the original ending resonated with many, a revised ending exists, offering a subtly altered perspective on Brundle's fate. The exact nature of the changes varies depending on the version, but key differences generally include a less graphic portrayal of Brundle's final moments.

• Narrative Shifts: Some versions slightly alter the dialogue, softening the explicit depiction of Brundle's physical transformation and death.
• Visual Alterations: The revised ending might feature less graphic imagery of Brundle's decaying body.
• Reasons for Revision: The reasons behind the revision remain speculative, but possible explanations include studio pressure to soften the film's graphic content or feedback from test audiences. It's also possible that Cronenberg himself reevaluated the ending post-production.
• Director's Cut vs. Theatrical Release: Understanding whether the differences are between a director's cut and a theatrical release is important for properly comparing the two endings. This distinction can affect the context of the changes.

Jeff Goldblum's Role in Shaping Both Endings

Jeff Goldblum's performance is crucial to both endings, showcasing his remarkable range as an actor. His collaboration with Cronenberg was clearly a vital element in crafting Brundle's tragic arc.

• Adaptability: Goldblum's skill lies in his ability to adapt his performance to the nuances of both endings. His portrayal of Brundle's suffering maintains its emotional power regardless of the specific visual or narrative alterations.
• Collaboration with Cronenberg: Anecdotal accounts (if available) would highlight the actor's input and creative dialogue with the director, emphasizing his collaborative role in shaping Brundle’s character and demise in both the original and revised versions.
• Character Arc: His portrayal of Brundle's transformation from brilliant scientist to monstrous creature is a testament to his acting prowess, regardless of which ending is considered.

The Impact of the Revised Ending on The Fly's Legacy

The existence of a revised ending has undoubtedly contributed to the ongoing discussion surrounding The Fly. It raises questions about the artistic merit of each conclusion and their impact on the film's overall interpretation.

• Audience Perception: The revised ending arguably created a more palatable experience for some audiences, while others may find it to be less impactful than the original.
• Artistic Merit: The debate regarding which ending is superior is largely subjective, raising questions about the role of audience reception in shaping a film's legacy. Does the revised ending detract from the film's power, or does it offer a different avenue for interpretation?
• Thematic Variations: Analyzing how each ending impacts the film's central themes, such as the relationship between science and nature, offers a compelling lens for exploring the differences between the original and revised conclusions.

Conclusion: Revisiting The Fly's Endings – A Lasting Debate

The original and revised endings of The Fly offer fascinating insights into the complexities of filmmaking and the subjective nature of artistic interpretation. Both endings powerfully showcase Jeff Goldblum's exceptional talent, highlighting his ability to convey the character's emotional turmoil regardless of the narrative or visual alterations. The debate over which ending is superior continues, highlighting the enduring power and lasting impact of this cinematic classic. Discuss your favorite ending of The Fly! Explore the impact of Jeff Goldblum's performance and delve deeper into the world of The Fly's revised conclusion. [Link to related resources, if available].