Spider (2002)

Spider (2002)

Dir. David Cronenberg

An often overlooked film from the Canadian director that absolutely deserves more attention than it currently receives, for a number of reasons but mostly because of Ralph Fiennes' powerful performance as the titular Spider character.

Spider's (often incomprehensible) dialogue characterises him, as you'd expect, but perhaps an even more important avenue into his state of mind are his mannerisms, clothes, and even his stained fingers, all of which are an exquisite commentary on what's beneath the surface.

The Becket-esque halfway house in which the secretive Spider is placed has a nearby factory that looms in an almost Ballardian way. The two different literary styles work visually as one thanks to Cronenberg's ability to make them feel as if they truly deserve each other.

I really like Miranda Richardson and loved seeing her get such a substantial, compelling role.

The screenplay was written by author Patrick McGrath, adapted from his own novel of the same name. I've not read the original story, but I'm aware that it was a first person narrative. That's something that had to be changed for the film and, judged solely on the result, as a compromise it's a hugely successful one. But be warned, the trailer makes it appear something it's not.