Why Jeff Goldblum Wanted A Different Ending For The Fly

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on Apr 29, 2025

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Goldblum's Initial Reaction to the Script's Ending

While there isn't extensive public documentation detailing Jeff Goldblum's precise initial reaction to The Fly's ending, we can infer his perspective based on his known personality and the film's overall tragic tone. The original ending, depicting Brundle's horrific transformation into a grotesque fly-human hybrid, is undeniably disturbing and emotionally devastating. This brutal climax likely resonated with Goldblum on a profound level, given his commitment to portraying the character's complex emotional journey.

• Interviews and Behind-the-Scenes Information: Although direct quotes about Goldblum's specific feelings about the ending are scarce, his comments on his approach to acting often hint at a preference for nuanced character arcs and emotional depth. A less abrupt and more emotionally resonant conclusion might have better suited his preferred style of acting.
• Problematic Elements: The abrupt and irreversible nature of Brundle’s transformation might have felt unsatisfying to Goldblum. The complete loss of humanity and the absence of any final reconciliation could have been perceived as too bleak.
• Tragic Nature and Legacy: The tragic nature of the original ending undeniably contributed to the film’s enduring power. However, this very power may have also prompted Goldblum to consider a different approach, potentially one offering a sliver of hope or a more ambiguous resolution.

Exploring Alternative Endings Suggested by Goldblum (or Speculated)

While concrete evidence of Goldblum suggesting specific alternative endings is lacking, we can speculate on possibilities aligned with the film's themes and his acting style.

• Potential Alternative Endings:
  • A Slightly Less Tragic Outcome: Perhaps a scenario where Brundle finds a way to partially reverse the transformation, leaving him with some semblance of his humanity. This would offer a bittersweet resolution, acknowledging the tragedy but leaving room for a glimmer of hope.
  • A More Ambiguous Conclusion: An ending that leaves the audience questioning Brundle's fate, blurring the line between human and insect, could have been more in line with the film’s surreal and thought-provoking nature.
  • A Different Focus on Scientific Ambition: An alternative ending might have explored Brundle's regret and the consequences of his scientific hubris more explicitly, potentially leading to a more introspective conclusion, rather than a purely visceral one.
• Impact on the Overall Story: Each of these alternative endings would significantly alter the film’s overall message. A less tragic ending might lessen the impact of the cautionary tale against unchecked scientific ambition. An ambiguous ending would heighten the film's surreal qualities, while a focus on regret could add layers of psychological depth.
• Audience Emotional Response: An alternative ending would inevitably elicit different emotional responses from the audience. A less tragic outcome might lead to a feeling of bittersweet catharsis, while an ambiguous conclusion could leave viewers pondering the film's themes long after the credits roll.

The Significance of the Original Ending and its Impact

The original ending of The Fly, though brutal, is undeniably effective. David Cronenberg, the director, and Charles Edward Pogue, the screenwriter, intentionally crafted a shocking and unforgettable climax.

• Critical Acclaim and Cultural Impact: The Fly's original ending garnered widespread critical acclaim and has become a staple of horror and sci-fi cinema, influencing countless films and television shows.
• Themes of Body Horror, Scientific Hubris, and Ambition: The original ending powerfully encapsulates the film’s central themes. Brundle’s complete transformation serves as a chilling visual metaphor for the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition and the horrifying consequences of tampering with nature.
• Contribution to the Film's Legacy: The original ending's unflinching depiction of body horror and its exploration of profound philosophical themes contributed significantly to the film's lasting legacy as a classic of the genre.

Conclusion

While we can only speculate on Jeff Goldblum's exact preferences, it's plausible that he might have favored a less unequivocally tragic ending for The Fly, perhaps one offering a more nuanced exploration of Seth Brundle's emotional journey and the film's complex themes. The original ending, however, remains a powerful and effective conclusion that cemented The Fly's status as a cinematic landmark. Its impact underscores the brilliant collaboration between Goldblum and Cronenberg, even if the final product wasn't exactly what Goldblum initially envisioned. What's your ideal ending for The Fly? Share your thoughts in the comments below!