Brain Damage (1988) movie poster

Brain Damage

1988 ·1h 26m · ★ 6.7 (297)

Brian comes under the addictive spell of a parasite with the ability to induce euphoric hallucinations in its hosts.

Why it matters

A twisted blend of body horror and stoner nightmare that turns addiction into a grotesque parasite with a wicked sense of humor.

  • Frank Henenlotter’s cult classic delivers unforgettable practical effects courtesy of KNB, with a slimy, mischievous creature that’s as repulsive as it is charismatic.
  • A darkly comic exploration of addiction that predates and out-psychedelics David Cronenberg’s work in its visceral depiction of dependency and loss of control.
  • Equal parts grimy grindhouse and surreal hallucination, perfect for fans of offbeat ’80s horror with a punk attitude and no shame about its low-budget charm.
  • Not for the squeamish or the sober — its blend of gore and drug-fueled delirium is a wild, unsettling ride into the darkest corners of the mind.
7 horror films in catalog

Horror DNA

Gore
57
Slow Burn
50
Psychological
100
Supernatural
0
Creature
36
Disturbing
100
Fun Factor
83
Cerebral
57
Survival
33
Body HorrorParasite

Content Warnings

Sexual ViolenceTaboo ContentBody HorrorDehumanization

Phobia triggers

TeethFlashing Lights

TMDB Keywords

1980saddictioncommunal showereuphoriafaustfaustian pactfellatiohallucinationhighhookupmetaphorpublic restroomsubway trainwithdrawal

Pairs Well With