Anguish (1987) - a podcast by Whatever Entertainment

The production of "Anguish" in 1987 was a unique and ambitious endeavor that brought together a talented team led by director Bigas Luna. The film is notable for its innovative approach to storytelling and its exploration of psychological horror, which set it apart from conventional horror movies of its time.

Director Bigas Luna, known for his distinctive and imaginative filmmaking style, carefully crafted a gripping narrative that delved into the complexities of the human mind. Luna's vision for the film was to create a suspenseful and psychologically disturbing experience that would challenge and intrigue the audience.

Zelda Rubinstein's portrayal of Alice Pressman, the troubled mother, was a central element in bringing the character to life. Her performance added depth and authenticity to the portrayal of mental illness, adding to the film's unsettling atmosphere.

The production also benefited from the cinematography of José Luis Alcaine, who effectively captured the eerie and claustrophobic tone of the film. The use of lighting and camera angles heightened the sense of unease and suspense throughout the movie.

In terms of practical effects, the film employed practical gore and special effects to depict the gruesome murders, adding to the visceral impact of the horror elements. The combination of practical effects and psychological terror helped create an immersive and chilling experience for the viewers.

While "Anguish" didn't receive mainstream commercial success, it garnered a cult following among horror enthusiasts for its unique storytelling, strong performances, and atmospheric direction. Over the years, the film has become a cult classic, celebrated for its innovative take on the horror genre and its exploration of the human psyche.

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Plot Summary:

"Anguish" is a psychological horror film from 1987, directed by Bigas Luna. The story revolves around a deeply disturbed mother named Alice Pressman, portrayed by Zelda Rubinstein. Alice suffers from a severe mental illness, bordering on schizophrenia, and her condition is fueled by a haunting past trauma.

Obsessed with the idea that her own eyes are failing, Alice becomes fixated on the notion that she needs fresh human eyes to preserve her sight. She pressures her introverted and impressionable son, John (played by Michael Lerner), into helping her carry out a series of gruesome murders to obtain the necessary eyes.

As John becomes increasingly entangled in his mother's delusions, the lines between reality and fantasy blur, driving him to the brink of madness. As the body count rises, a local police detective starts investigating the peculiar string of murders, eventually closing in on the Pressman household.

The film delves deep into the twisted dynamics of a dysfunctional mother-son relationship and explores the unsettling power of a deteriorating mind. With a chilling atmosphere and a psychological rollercoaster at its core, "Anguish" delivers a gripping and haunting tale of horror that leaves audiences questioning the nature of sanity and the depths of human darkness.

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