Sunday, July 31, 2011

#359. Headspace (2005)


Directed By: Andrew van den Houten

Starring: Olivia Hussey, William Atherton and Christopher Denham




Tag line: "Fear. It's All In Your Head"










As you might expect from a film titled Headspace, this is a movie that will mess with your mind. But rest assured: even though it leans strongly in the direction of the psychological, there are a handful of scenes in Headspace the squeamish will definitely want to avoid. 

Alex Borden (Christopher Denham) is undergoing a change, one that's transforming him from an awkward 25-year-old into an ultra-intelligent dynamo, capable of memorizing entire books just by thumbing through them. Unfortunately, his new-found intelligence comes with a few minor side effects, such as crippling headaches and a series of gruesome visions, during which Alex witnesses brutal murders being committed. His personal search for answers into his changing condition intensifies when he realizes the dream-like visions are all too real, and people he's recently come into contact with are dying. With the help of specialist Dr. Karen Murphy (Olivia Hussey), Alex hopes to uncover some answers about his transformation, while at the same time putting a stop to the killings before his sanity slips away. 

In its very first sequence, Headspace establishes the tone it will maintain throughout; set years earlier, a young Alex (played as a child by Quinn Lujan) and his family are forced to deal with a sudden change in Alex's mother (Sean Young), whose seemingly simple nosebleed quickly escalates into all-out madness. Things get so bad that Alex's father (Larry Fessenden) gathers up Alex and his older brother, Harry (Daniel Manche), and scurries them away in the middle of the night, but not before blowing part of their mother's head off with a shotgun. This opening, both bizarre and unsettling, establishes the film's mysterious nature, as well as the sudden and graphic violence that will occasionally work its way into the mix. 

A handful of stars lend their talents to Headspace, most of whom appear only briefly. Along with Olivia Hussey and Sean Young, there's Dee Wallace (The Howling) as a doctor unable to help Alex, and Udo Kier (Suspiria, Andy Warhol's Dracula) as a priest whose abbreviated encounter with the ailing young man leads to one of the film's most violent scenes. But while some might get a kick out of these cameos, they're ultimately unnecessary. Headspace is a movie in which the mystery surrounding its main character grabs your attention, and like that opening scene with Alex's mother, keeps you guessing as to what's going on. The questions raised are themselves perplexing, and enough to ensure we stay in tune with the story, making the horror all the more intense, and the occasional moments of violence all the more jarring, as a result.







54 comments:

Anonymous said...

the third pod was great fun times and many to buy and watch. i'll always have plenty of horror movies to watch with the jungle. ainsley ny

Anonymous said...

EXCELLENT PODCAST - My partner and I use it for all horror movies we buy!!!!!

DVD Infatuation said...

Thanks for the comments! They're appreciated.

Ainsley: We're glad you're enjoying the show, and hopefully you'll also enjoy the movies we're recommending!

Anonymous: Thanks for the kind words, and we're truly honored that you place such confidence in our recommendations.

Ainsley and Anonymous: We'd love for both of you to stop back and let us know what you thought of the movies when you've had a chance to watch them. Thanks again for stopping by, and for listening to Horror Jungle.

Anonymous said...

yep i am a smuck i know i missed e3 when it came out cant seem to remember the new day.

the news of stitcher will solve this completely. installed and got horror jungle on my home screen.

buying all picks this week except two. the two that didnt faze me are kidnapped and the brood.

you guys are going to make me broke. your podcast is too good, it makes me want to buy everything. ;) w.leir

DVD Infatuation said...

W.Leir: Seriously, it's understandable. After 6 months of Sunday releases with Planet Macabre, the new Tuesday schedule has been an adjustment for all of us!

Thanks so much for the compliments regarding the show, and enjoy the movies! Please be sure to stop back and let us know what you think of them after watching.

Thanks also for stopping by, and for listening to Horror Jungle.

Anonymous said...

3 was awesome I expect nothing less from you guys--Kudos-

DVD Infatuation said...

Thanks for the Kudos! We appreciate it. Glad you enjoyed the show, and thanks so much for listening!

Anonymous said...

Magnificent show!!

My 2 favorite lines came from Billchetie "Corey bought it" referring to that stupid sounding movie the Last Broadcast and yours Doctorshowck "Where did the army of hor's come from" on that cannibal movie.

Awesomely funny!!

Mirka

DVD Infatuation said...

Mirka: Thanks for stopping by, and for the kind words regarding the show (glad you found it funny! I had forgotten about Billchete's line...that was classic!).

I appreciate the comment, and thanks for listening!

Anonymous said...

OHNO I am going to miss this podcast. It felt like a family of the horror crowd. Well good luck to all. Susanne

Anonymous said...

Say it isn't so Dr. All my puchases came from "The Jungle" and Planet Macabre earlier. Now where to go noone covers horror movies like you guys. Sad :(

Anonymous said...

Ah, Jungle done that sucks. Billchete has such a knack of putting on the most entertaining horror podcasts.

I feel privileged to hear any show in the horror realm. I guess all good things must come to an end.

Good luck Billchete and all 7 of the cohosts. know this YOU WILL BE MISSED

R.Beamen

Anonymous said...

see you jungle hosts and good luck in the futere. i loved the podcast more than you will ever know. rudy

Anonymous said...

The Fam will miss this podcast.

Horror movies were covered so well and the DVD pix were incredible.

Bye, "The Rubersons"

Anonymous said...

I've been a loyal follower of Bill's for years and years. I am a touched shock that none of the other hosts would pick up the slack on the podcast until he returns. Bill has always been dedicated to the fans so I know he will be back sooner rather than later.

Can none of the other hosts step in for awhile. I don't think you guys realize how amazing the podcast is. Unique and pure enjoyment. Come on hosts step up and continue the podcast.

Bob

Anonymous said...

just when i was getting comfurtable with the new hosts its gone.

oh well shit happens maybe down the rode it can resurfice.

i sugest some of the new hosts somehow join forces or start a new one up, especifically joe mummy-midnight corey-boss butcher.

keep us informed dr.

Anonymous said...

this BS all started with that fuckup Gregamortis. If he would of followed through us fans would not be in this sitaution of a horrorless podcast now.

i appreciate the level of dedication all 8 of you have shown. it WAS a GREAT podcast.

get some rest you 8 and come back bigger and stronger than ever.

Anonymous said...

Dam my Tuesdays will be lame now with no junglecast.

I dont like the KCcast it is nothing like the junglecast.

I wish you would reconsider shutting down. Take a LOA and regroup I will wait.

Melvin Frier

Anonymous said...

BooHoo Jungle Horror retiring so soon, sorry to hear that, Good luck, and don't forget about us horror fans.

Anonymous said...

Bad news this morning. My coffee never tasted so bad. Two things please.

1 - I request a Fan episode (Closing down party like PM)

2 - Some suggestions of other horror movie podcasts that you support.

Valerie

Anonymous said...

With 90K horror loving fans where in the world are we going to go now for our horror reviews/ratings. No pod does it like you guys. Don't leave.
Ann

DVD Infatuation said...

My thanks to everyone for stopping by, and expressing their thoughts on Horror Jungle. It is a sad day, but unfortunately, one that was looking more and more inevitable with each passing week.

My sincerest thanks, and deepest admiration, go out to Billchete. If you remember, back towards the end of Planet Macabre, Bill announced that he was going to be taking a break from podcasting (due to his commitment to the radio show, though because of his contractual obligations, he couldn't state the reasons why at the time).

When Epic Horror folded, Bill took the news very hard. His main concern was the fans of Planet Macabre, who would suddenly be left with nothing. Dreading this more than anything, Billchete came up with an idea, and Horror Jungle was born.

Of course, the time it took to prepare, record and edit the show was extensive. Some weeks, as many as 50 hours were needed to make things flow smoothly. With his other commitments outside of Horror Jungle, it simply became too much.

As for the other hosts, KC will be continuing with his podcast (which has been in existence since well before Horror Jungle) and Midnight Corey has expressed an interest in re-starting his old podcast. The remainder of the hosts will undoubtedly pop up from time to time on other horror shows (KC has cordially invited us all to his podcast), as we've found that we really enjoy it.

Unfortunately, continuing Horror Jungle raises two issues. One, of course, is the time that's required to continue the podcast. Billchete is an experienced podcaster, editor, webmaster and the like, and it still took him an incredible amount of time each week to put the show together. With everyone having full-time careers outside of the show, it's time that many of us (some of whom don't have anywhere near the experience Billchete has) simply don't have. The second issue is just as much of a challenge: the equipment! Billchete's recording equipment is state-of-the-art, which is why the show sounds so great. While I can't speak for everyone, my 'equipment' doesn't extend beyond the headset I use when we're recording!

Finally, I want to once again thank Billchete for the incredible opportunity he gave me. This time last year, if anyone told me I'd be podcasting, let alone on a show as wildly popular as Planet Macabre or Horror Jungle, I would have never believed it. The past 8-9 months have been an incredible experience, and I've met so many wonderful people through the show, who have been very supportive as I slowly learned the process. I once again thank both Billchete, who I'm proud to call a good friend, and the excellent fans, who are so incredibly great. You've all made this whole experience an amazing amount of fun, and I thank you for it.

As for the blog, I will be continuing on with my 3-a-week horror entries. Honestly, I couldn't stop now if I wanted to...I'm hooked!

Again, thanks to everyone for their kind words and support, and thanks for listening.

Anonymous said...

My good Doc thanks for a thorough explanation also. Since you are the #2 man behind Billchetie couldn't you fill in for the time being?

I have followed Billchetie for a long time and I would guarantee he wouldn't let us fans down, he never has before.

It would be nice to see the same format and style continue on until the time comes for a reunion.

Ed (Hopeful and appreciative)

Anonymous said...

Doctor Shock are you saying BillChete handled every aspect of the website, production and podcast? If that is the case I can see a "burnout" factor espicially being around as long as he has in horror. WOW, that actually even makes me like the guy more. I will miss Horror Jungle tons, it was a one of a kind horror podcast that would have blown all others out of the water.

Brent/Georgia

DVD Infatuation said...

Ed: Thanks so much for the kind words. They're appreciated.

Unfortunately, I'm in the same boat as many of the other hosts: I simply don't have the time it would require to put the show together. As mentioned above, Billchete was dedicating as many as 50 hours a week to Horror Jungle (aside from the show, i forgot to mention the thousands of e-mails that come pouring in each and every week, that must be addressed). And Billchete had an incredible amount of experience with podcasting! Career aside, my family also demands quite a bit of my time, and the kicker is I have no recording equipment whatsoever, which means I also have no experience with editing or assembling a show.

I appreciate your vote of confidence; it really is flattering. But the truth is, having been a podcaster for only 9 months, and having zero technical skills and no experience putting a show together, I would be a poor replacement for someone with Billchete's 5+ years at the helm.

You're right in that Billchete hates to disappoint the fans, which is why Horror Jungle came into existence in the first place. Unfortunately, it just became too much.

Again, I thank you for being a loyal listener, and like you, I wouldn't doubt that Billchete will return somewhere down the road, with a show just as incredible as Horror Jungle was.

Take care, and have a great day!

DVD Infatuation said...

Brent: Absolutely! My admiration for Billchete has grown each and every day I've known him. He is a dynamo! If he says it's becoming too overwhelming, you can believe the same process would have put many of the rest of us in a constant state of utter exhaustion! His devotion and skills are truly awe-inspiring.

And when you take into account the high quality of his output, you have a uniquely talented individual.

Thanks so much for listening, and have a great day.

Anonymous said...

good luck 2 all hosts / doctor can we expect chills of yesteryear continuing on another podcast?

jack and jess
ages 58 and 61

DVD Infatuation said...

Jack and Jess: Thanks for the best wishes. They're appreciated.

At this point, there's no plans to continue Chills of Yesteryear on another podcast, buy who knows wheat tomorrow may bring? In the meantime, I will continue to cover old-time horror on the blog. Like yourselves, I can never get enough of it!

Thanks for stopping by, and for listening. Have a great day.

Anonymous said...

All the hosts are so charming and professional something completely lacking in the horror industry.

I support you, back you and will follow each one of the hosts.

Please take this to heart, you are deeply talented critics and amazing at what you have accomplished in a short amount of time.

I ♥ YOU GUYS. Dorothy

DVD Infatuation said...

Dorothy: That means the world to all of us, and the support of fans like yourself is what made the show so much fun to do. I am both humbled and honored by your comments.

Thanks so much for your support of the show, and for listening. All the best to you.

Anonymous said...

Mr. Shock 'The Shock' 'The Shockman' 'The Shockster' Like my many names 4 u!

This is a Shocker, Dr. Shock!

Hey hold your heads up commenters they will be back when you have something as strong and awesome as Horror Jungle they will be unable to stay away!

DVD Infatuation said...

Thanks so much (very creative uses of Dr. Shock, BTW...I like it)

We appreciate your comments, and thank you for your support of the show. Both Planet Macabre and Horror Jungle were tremendous experiences, but as you said, I don't doubt that many of the hosts will return one day in the near future, with a show equally as impressive.

Thanks again, and have a great day.

Anonymous said...

▄▄▄▄▄▄
▌ NO ▐ DON'T GO
▀▀▀▀▀▀
The Podcast is AWESOME and we love you guys.

DenmarkDane

DVD Infatuation said...

DenmarkDane: Sorry, my friend!

We appreciate your support of the show: it has meant a lot to us. It's just sad it had to end so soon.

Thanks for listening, and have a great day.

Anonymous said...

Horror Jungle hosts,
It was an amazing podcast and it is sad that it has ended.

I am not even a big horror movie watcher. My friend turned me onto the podcast for the quality level of movie discussions.

It was fun & entertaining each time.

I am not big on email but if you can let Billchete, Dr Shock, Midnite Corey and Joe Mummy know- I will miss there points of view. Oustanding critics.

Lord Obeon

DVD Infatuation said...

Lord Obeon: Thanks for stopping by, and for sharing your thoughts on Horror Jungle. it's nice to hear that the show's appeal even extended beyond the horror genre.

I will be sure to pass your comments along to the hosts mentioned, and I thank you so much for the kind words.

Thanks for listening, and have a great day.

Anonymous said...

So long Horror Jungle team you were my favorite horror podcast.

Thank you BillChete and Dr. Shock for the detailed explanations. It does make sense "now" with Planet Macabre, Epic Horror, and Horror Jungle.

It is a very understandable situation and I am hopeful for a return at some point.

E.B.Monroe

DVD Infatuation said...

E.B.: Thanks for your kind words and for understanding the situation. There was so much that couldn't be said back during the Epic Horror debacle (for a variety of reasons, key among them being Billchete's inability at the time to discuss his reasons for leaving).

Thanks for supporting the show, and all the best to you.

Anonymous said...

Jungle Hosts: THIS SUCKS!

That said, I completely understand the situation. I'm a former podcaster myself, and what few people realize (and what you guys are too POLITE to say) is that you DON'T GET PAID to put together a podcast! Being a podcaster is all sacrifice (your time), and no profit. The fact you put out such a great one, and provided free entertainment to a lot of people for the past few months, is truly awesome.

So, to:

HORROR JUNGLE:
Billchete
Joe Mummy
Dr. Shock
Hellhunter
Bloody Lizzy
Boss Butcher
KC Canton
Midnight Corey

PLANET MACABRE:
Lady Phantom
Gregamortis

Thanks for the entertainment! You guys didn't have to do it, but you did, and we fans thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

DVD Infatuation said...

Thanks so much for the kind words. While there was no monetary profit from doing the show, I did have a great time, and meeting so many wonderful people proved extremely valuable to me.

I will pass your comment along to the other hosts as well, and thanks again!

Anonymous said...

you will be sorely missed jungle dudes. the podcast was head&shoulders above the rest in horror. (not the shampoo-lol-a little humor at these times is always good)

vic

DVD Infatuation said...

Vic: Thanks for stopping by, and for the kind words.

And yes, any humor at this point is appreciated! Thanks for interjecting some.

Thanks also for listening, and have a great day.

Anonymous said...

Horror Jungle stopping pains me, it is and was the best horror podcast in the world.

God Bless, Kelly T

Anonymous said...

You guys rocked it out with the horror reviews and movie selections each episode. Although it was only three shows I feel I know all of your tastes and mannerisms.

► Good Luck and hear you all soon (I hope) ◄

► Terrance Jackson ◄

Anonymous said...

Much sorrow about the pod cast. I don't think you critics can even fathom how well liked you are.

Your expertise in horror is ground breaking and the best you can get in a podcast.

Well, so long, Milford Mikko

Anonymous said...

DrShock,
You're my pal of the old era horror, could you tell me what your personal plans are DrShock? Fritz

Anonymous said...

AHHHHHHHHH NO I love you horror peeps I'm gonna miss ya peeps---H.Vershern

Anonymous said...

Marvelous podcast I don't know where I am going to find horror movies to purchase. If you decide to come back please let me know.

roundrobin4@hotmail.com

DVD Infatuation said...

Thanks to everyone for stopping by!

Kelly: Thanks so much for the compliment. I would add that Horror Jungle FANS are also the best! Thanks for supporting the show, and for listening.

Terrance: Thank you, sir! I can't tell you how gratifying it is to read that. So glad you liked the show, and thanks for supporting us!

Milford: Thanks so much. I'm humbled by your kind words. It is a sad day, but the outpouring of kindness from the fans is overwhelming, to say the least. Thanks so much for listening.

Fritz: At this point, I'm kinda playing it by ear, so to speak. I have no definite plans with regards to horror podcasting, but rest assured, I'll continue to cover the classics on my blog! I love them as much as you do, and I can't stay away from them for very long! Thanks for stopping by, and for commenting.

H.Vershern: Thanks so much. And please know we're gonna miss you fans as well. You've all been so very great! Thanks for listening, and for stopping by.

@roundrobin4: I will definitely let you know once there are definite plans. Thanks for the kind words, and for listening to the show. Have a great day!

Anonymous said...

Sirs and Ma'am- It was a pleasure listening to the episodes not only the focus on horror movies but as a show on a whole. I could picture you guys on the Boob Tube with the level of talent you had. It is a sad day for the podcast but who knows what the future holds for you all. Keep us informed as to the hosts undertakings I will be wondering what happens to each one of you.- Roseanna Gilderman

P.S. After reading through the comments I feel lucky we got 3 shows out of you.

Anonymous said...

Geez n 2 think I complaned bout goin wekely, whut a sorrie sack I M. Stay on ure game hosts for a huge horror return I B waitin → TaJepe

Anonymous said...

Horror Jungle was a boon while it lasted. The kindness and devotion to horror was impressive. The loyalty to the fans was equally impressive. Best wishes.

Anonymous said...

Thx for all the hard work of putting together a website/podcast for us horror fans. I appreciate it and I am sure many others do.

I miss you already and it was a whole week before next episode. Take it easy and good luck to all the phenomenal hosts.

J.R. Braxton

DVD Infatuation said...

Thanks for stopping by, everyone!

Roseanna: We appreciate the kind words, and are flattered you think we could be on TV! We will certainly keep you informed as to our future plans, and thanks so much for listening!

TaJepe: No worries! You were one of many who requested weekly shows, and we were flattered that you and so many others wanted 'more' Horror Jungle. Thanks for listening!

Anonymous: It was truly our pleasure, and the Horror Jungle fans are the best! Thanks for all the support you've given the show, and all the best to you as well.

J.R.: We were glad to do it, and thanks so much for listening. I'm sure I'll miss it as well (it'll certainly seem strange not recording another episode). Best wishes to you as well, and thanks for all the support.