Brain Damage

Watch Brain Damage

"It's a Headache from Hell."
  • R
  • 1988
  • 6.5  (13,517)
  • 61

Brain Damage is a 1988 horror movie directed by Frank Henenlotter. The movie follows a man named Brian (Rick Hearst) who becomes addicted to a bizarre parasite named Aylmer (voiced by John Zacherle) that attaches itself to his brain and provides him with a euphoric hallucinogenic substance. The symbiotic relationship between Brian and Aylmer takes a sinister turn when Brian realizes that Aylmer also requires human brains to survive.

The film begins with Brian living a mundane existence with his girlfriend Barbara (Jennifer Lowry) and dealing with the monotony of his life. One night, he meets Aylmer, a peculiar creature who injects him with a blue liquid that provides Brian with an intense high. Aylmer seems friendly at first, but as Brian's addiction to the blue liquid grows, so too does Aylmer's hold over him.

As Brian becomes more and more reliant on Aylmer, he starts to hear the creature's voice in his head, urging him to do unspeakable things. Aylmer reveals to Brian that the blue liquid he injects him with is actually a narcotic substance made from human brains. Aylmer requires the brains to survive, and he persuades Brian to help him obtain more.

Brian's addiction to Aylmer's narcotic substance escalates to the point where he can no longer function without it. He becomes increasingly erratic, violent, and paranoid, much to the concern of Barbara, who tries to help him overcome his addiction. However, it quickly becomes apparent that Aylmer will not let Brian go without a fight, and he draws Brian into a twisted and deadly web of secrets, lies, and murder.

As Brian's addiction spirals out of control, he is forced into a series of increasingly gruesome situations that push the boundaries of horror. The film is grotesque and gory, with plenty of disturbing imagery and scenes of violence. It explores themes of addiction, dependency, and control, making for a tense and psychological horror experience.

Overall, Brain Damage is a unique and disturbing horror movie that holds up well today, nearly thirty years after its release. Its blend of body horror, drug addiction, and old-school gore makes for a truly unforgettable horror experience. The film is cleverly constructed, with excellent pacing and memorable characters. If you're a fan of classic horror movies, you definitely won't want to miss out on this cult favorite.

Brain Damage
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Description
  • Release Date
    1988
  • MPAA Rating
    R
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.5  (13,517)
  • Metascore
    61
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