Why Jeff Goldblum Wanted A Different Ending For The Fly

Felix Dubois

4 min read

Post on Apr 29, 2025

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The Original Ending and Its Impact

The Fly's original ending is etched in cinematic history: Seth Brundle, horrifically transformed into a grotesque hybrid of man and fly, begs his lover Veronica Quaife to end his suffering before succumbing to his monstrous form. This scene, unforgettable for its visceral imagery and emotional devastation, solidified the film's place in the horror canon.

The film's critical and commercial success was partly fueled by this bleak and shocking conclusion. It wasn't just a monster movie; it was a poignant exploration of scientific hubris and the acceptance of mortality.

• Emotional Weight: The ending is profoundly sad, leaving a lasting impression on viewers long after the credits roll. The desperation in Goldblum's performance is palpable, heightening the tragedy.
• Influence on Genre: The Fly's influence on body horror and science fiction subgenres is undeniable. It set a new standard for practical effects and the exploration of disturbing physical transformations.
• Cultural Impact: The film's imagery, particularly Brundle's final form, has become ingrained in popular culture, influencing countless other films, books, and even video games. It's a testament to the power of the original ending.

Jeff Goldblum's Perspective: A Different Vision

While the original ending resonated with audiences, reports suggest Jeff Goldblum harbored a different vision for the film's conclusion. Although specific details of his proposed alternative endings are scarce, interviews hint at a desire for a less bleak outcome. Perhaps he felt the original ending was overly depressing, or maybe he envisioned a more nuanced exploration of the scientific possibilities presented in the story.

• Alternative Endings?: While no concrete proposals from Goldblum have surfaced publicly, speculation abounds. Could he have envisioned a cure for Brundle's condition? Or a more ambiguous ending, leaving the audience to ponder the possibilities?
• Relationship with Cronenberg: Goldblum's relationship with director David Cronenberg, known for his unflinching depictions of body horror, was reportedly positive despite the creative differences. This suggests a respectful disagreement rather than a conflict.
• Goldblum's Filmography: Looking at Goldblum's broad filmography, from dramatic roles to comedic performances, reveals his versatility. This further fuels the idea that he might have preferred a more ambiguous, less definitively tragic ending to highlight different thematic aspects of The Fly.

Exploring Potential Alternate Endings and Their Impact

Considering the film's themes, several alternative endings could have been explored. How would these changes have affected the film's overall message?

• Hopeful Alternative: Perhaps a last-minute scientific breakthrough could have offered a glimmer of hope, albeit with lasting consequences for Brundle. This would offer a different emotional response to the original conclusion.
• Tragic but Less Bleak: A slightly less horrific transformation, with Brundle retaining some semblance of humanity, could have created a more poignant, yet less viscerally shocking, ending.
• Bittersweet Ending: A blend of hope and sadness could have emerged. Brundle might have found a way to control or partially reverse his transformation, but at a significant cost, leaving a lingering sense of melancholy.
• Impact on Legacy: Each of these alternative endings would significantly impact the film's legacy, potentially changing its perception from a stark horror film to something more ambiguous and thought-provoking.

The Artistic Choices Behind the Original Ending

David Cronenberg's artistic vision was crucial in shaping The Fly's devastating finale. His focus on body horror and the exploration of extreme physical transformations perfectly complements the film’s themes. The original ending underscores the irreversible nature of scientific missteps and the horrifying consequences of unchecked ambition.

• Visual Effects: The groundbreaking practical effects were integral to the ending's impact. The realism of Brundle's transformation amplified the horror and cemented the scene in viewers' minds.
• Cronenberg's Style: Cronenberg's distinctive style, marked by a fascination with the grotesque and the unsettling, is perfectly embodied in the film’s climax. The shocking ending is a testament to his artistic vision and commitment to unflinching realism.

Conclusion

Jeff Goldblum's reported desire for a different ending to The Fly highlights the diverse interpretations possible within a single cinematic work. While the original ending's impact is undeniable, exploring alternative conclusions allows us to appreciate the artistic choices made and the potential ramifications of different creative directions. The film's shocking conclusion remains a powerful testament to David Cronenberg's vision and the enduring power of the original The Fly movie ending. What ending do you think would have been better for The Fly? Share your thoughts on a different ending for The Fly in the comments below! Discuss your preferred The Fly ending with fellow fans!