Altered States (1980)

When: Wednesday, June 24th at 21.00
Where: Zefiros New Star Art Cinema (see map below) | Free entrance

We find ourselves in the late 60’s. Edward Jessup, a student known for his unconventional methods, uses an isolation chamber to conduct experiments on himself. His risky methods however, will lead him to severe hallucinations and religious-kind experiences.

A few years later, even though Eddie has become a Harvard Medical School professor, he feels he has lost his real purpose as a scientist and a researcher. So, he decides to resume his study on sensory deprivation. Only this time, he uses hallucinogens simultaneously, which leads him to lose control of not only his scientific goal, but also, gradually, of his own self.

Stunning, captivating and script-wise (almost) correct - based on Paddy Chayefsky’s novel, who wrote about the actual experiments conducted by Professor John C. Lilly- the film is one of the most –almost cult- essays on the great battle between rationality and metaphysics.

«Science», «religion», «ethics» and «love» assemble the core of the «negotiation», concluding in a fascinating result, which has remained unforgettable for its ecstatic delirium scenes and drug journeys, masterfully captured by Ken Russell’s camera. Kostas Aivaliotis

Directed by: Ken Russell
Starring: William Hurt, Bob Balaban, Blair Brown
Year: 1980
Running Time:103’