When I see a movie title like Bug I imagine a horror film that is bit to the comic side and a lot of fun, like Slither, or a straight to television movie that is just flat out bad like Frankenfish. What I do not envision is something directed by Exorcist director William Friedkin and starring Ashley Judd and Harry Connick Jr., but that is what we have here.
Bug is a horror film that looks very good, and more than a little bit freaky. That's a good thing, mind you. I like films that are a little to the weird and creepy side, and I am hoping it pays off. For one thing, I love the simplicity of the title, one word and you are set for the creepy crawlies. I'm feeling a little itchy just thinking about it.
The trailer looks intriguing. A couple holed up in a dingy hotel discovering bugs, lots of bugs, while the voiceover talks about bugs living in your blood and feeding on your brain. The big question is if these really are physical bugs attacking you, or is it some sort of brain altering dementia? Now, there are sure to be some real bugs, but I am wondering if this is a physical manifestation for something that is in their heads?
Of course, I may be reading too much into it and it may be much more literal. Either way, I am looking forward to this. The only thing that I am not too keen on is the title. Sure, it is catchy, but it sounds a little corny, and the reaction to it at the theater the other day was one of laughter, which I doubt is the intended reaction.
The script was adapted by Tracy Letts from his off-Broadway play. That surprised me - I don't see this as a stage play. This may mean our settings may be limited to a few locations which could foster a claustrophobic atmosphere which could play into the paranoia of those involved. Like I mentioned earlier, it was directed by William Friedkin, his first film since 2003's The Hunted and his first foray back to horror since The Guardian in 1990.
The trailer is online and ready for your viewing pleasure. It is set to be released by Lionsgate Films, in limited release, on December 1, 2006 and is rated R.
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Now it's a wide release in 2007. Looking forward to the soundtrack too, Serj Tankian, Chris Cornell, Scott Weiland.