Roger Ebert Absolutely Hated This Classic '70s Sci-Fi Horror Movie

Roger Ebert didn't mince words about sci-fi horror movies he disliked, including some that are now regarded as classics. In 1979, David Cronenberg's "The Brood" was born, giving viewers a twisted story about divorce and custody that involves experimental therapy, mutant children, and body horror. It's one of Cronenberg's most personal films — he made it after going through a divorce — but Roger Ebert dismissed it as just another gross-out horror movie.

"The Brood" is an el sleazo exploitation film, camouflaged by the presence of several well-known stars but guaranteed to nauseate you all the same," Ebert wrote. "That's after it bores you first." Ebert elaborated on his point, claiming that nothing interesting happens until the last 15 minutes of "The Brood." What's more, he dismissed the film's violence and shocking moments. "It's disgusting in ways that are not entertaining; as opposed, for example, to the great disgusting moments in 'Alien' or 'Dawn of the Dead' (1979)."

Ebert praised the low-budget H.P. Lovecraft adaptation "Re-Animator," so he wasn't inherently opposed to shocking exploitation movies. However, "The Brood" received plaudits for boasting thought-provoking ideas that complement the shocks. Ebert clearly wasn't a fan, but enough critics believe the film deserves its classic status.

David Cronberg has made some of the best horror movies ever, with "The Fly" and "Videodrome" among the many classics in his oeuvre. "The Brood" is right up there with his best work in the critics' eyes, as evidenced by its 84% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. With that in mind, why is this '70s shocker so beloved? "Cronenberg's movie was an early showcase for his tense formal style and intellectual Grand Guignol," according to The New Yorker. "He displays a true shock-meister's instinct by saving the worst for last. The result is a cinematic bad dream that generates recurring nightmares."

Alan Jones of the Radio Times was similarly complimentary, praising "The Brood" for its thematic strengths. "This genuinely creepy and upsetting stomach churner from David Cronenberg offers an intriguing metaphor for both unexplained bodily changes and the mental abuse some parents heap on their offspring."

Was Ebert in the wrong about this one? That's hard to say. He wasn't wrong in saying that "The Brood" is gross, and the slow-burn approach might put off horror fans looking for something more exciting. However, it's viewed as a classic by many for various reasons, so viewers should watch it for themselves and make up their own minds.