Rediscovering The Fury: A Cinematic Masterpiece
Films can evolve, and so can a critic’s perspective. It’s a refreshing exercise to revisit an earlier stance, and today, I’m doing a full pivot on Brian De Palma’s 1978 adaptation of John Farris’s novel, The Fury. Initially hailed as a critical and commercial success, this film didn’t resonate with my teenage sensibilities when I first saw it on an ITV Saturday night movie in 1983. After the revelatory experiences of films like Carrie, Blow Out, and Dressed to Kill, I found The Fury a letdown.
While it featured blood, dreamlike sequences, and a storyline reminiscent of Stephen King’s Firestarter, I deem it to be lackluster, particularly in its engaging melodrama. But with time, like fine wine, it appears to have matured. Could The Fury reveal hidden depths on a second viewing? Spoiler alert: the answer is a resounding yes.
The Plot: A Chilling Undertone
The film launches into a gripping narrative set in the Middle East, where seasoned agents Peter Sandza (Kirk Douglas) and Ben Childress (John Cassavetes) are engaged in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse. Sandza seeks to retire from the shadowy world of black ops, hoping to shield his son Robin (Andrew Stevens) from government interest. Their plan goes awry when Robin is kidnapped, spiraling into a series of electrifying events.
Meanwhile, in Chicago, we meet Gillian Belever (Amy Irving), a character dazzling her peers with her psychic capabilities. As she is drawn to the Paragon Institute to hone her telekinesis, Gillian begins experiencing haunting visions of Robin’s torment. The strands of their fate intertwine, leading to a thrilling rescue mission that showcases the depths of their powers.
Themes that Resonate: More Relevant Than Ever
The Fury crafts a narrative rich with commentary on government overreach and conspiracy. Lines like, “Those bozos in Washington are bugging the whole country…” are oddly prescient, echoing realities in 2025’s society. The idea of unidentified government forces abducting innocents feels alarmingly current, revealing the timeless nature of De Palma’s storytelling.
Visual Spectacle: De Palma’s Signature Style
While the plot may stumble at times, the visual storytelling in The Fury is where it truly soars. De Palma remains a master of crafting set pieces that are breathtaking in their intensity. A particularly striking sequence involves Robin unleashing his telekinetic powers at a carnival, where lightbulbs explode with a psychic crescendo that raises the stakes to fever pitch.
Moments such as Gillian’s flashback to Robin’s suffering, depicted through a dizzying 360-degree tilt, exemplify the film’s cinematic prowess. The meticulous framing and stylized slow-motion sequences are quintessentially De Palma, reflecting a brilliance that brings a dream-like quality to entirely surreal moments.
A Roller-Coaster of Emotion and Suspense
Despite its fluctuating narrative pace—alternating between excessive exposition and frenetic action—The Fury offers enthusiasts a treasure trove of De Palma’s signature elements. Expect to encounter lavishly captured department stores, intricate surveillance setups, and a pulsating score by John Williams, amplifying the film’s emotional and psychological depth. Each explosive finale is meticulously crafted, inviting viewers to relish every moment.
Conclusion: An Evolving Appreciation
In hindsight, The Fury is far more than a momentary blip in De Palma’s illustrious career. It stands as a testament to his unique storytelling style and continues to resonate in modern contexts. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of De Palma, a horror enthusiast, or someone exploring the depths of thriller cinema, The Fury deserves a place in your watch list.
If you revisit it today, prepare for a compelling journey through the corridors of fear, power, and an exhilarating examination of human potential. This cinematic gem is not just a product of its time; it’s a timeless exploration of the extraordinary in the ordinary.
For further insights into De Palma’s extensive filmography, check out our reviews of Obsession, Raising Cain, and The Untouchables. Don’t miss out on these classics that continue to shape modern cinema!
