Brain Damage

Connoisseurs of le bad cinema will rejoice in the sumptuous treatment that Arrow has given to this goofy 1988 horror comedy from Frank Henenlotter, whose Basket Case trilogy (1982-1992) and Frankenhooker (1990) are also staples of cult schlock. Rick Herbst stars as Brian, a young New Yorker who falls victim to an ancient parasite called Elmer, which latches onto the back of his neck and injects a fluid into his brain that gives him delightful psychedelic highs. In return, Brian must find victims for Elmer to feed on, and his devotion to the task sours his relationships with both his brother and girlfriend. Brian tries to free himself from the critter's control, ultimately leading to a confrontation with Elmer's former owners, who have tracked their pet down and want it back. Brain Damage is obviously a parable about drug addiction, but is definitely more parody than cautionary tale, with overwrought acting and bargain-basement effects (Elmer looks like a sock puppet covered in clay and glitter). Sporting a good transfer, extras include a director's audio commentary, behind-the-scenes featurettes, interviews, a festival Q&A with Henenlotter, the animated short “Bygone Behemoth,” and an image gallery. Likely to appeal to fans of Ed Wood but not many others, this is a strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek)