Jeff Goldblum's Unseen Influence: A Look At The Fly's Near-Different Conclusion

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 06, 2025

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The Original Ending: A Different Kind of Transformation

The Planned Tragic Conclusion

The original script envisioned a far bleaker fate for Seth Brundle. Instead of the iconic, heartbreaking transformation we witnessed, the ending was going to focus solely on the horrifying physical deterioration, devoid of the emotional depth that makes the final cut so powerful. This stark, purely horrific vision lacked the nuanced character study that ultimately defined the film.

• Complete Physical Disintegration: The original ending would have shown Seth Brundle's complete physical disintegration, leaving no trace of the sentient Brundlefly. This would have removed the complex, albeit monstrous, character arc that Goldblum’s performance so masterfully created.
• Veronica's Despair: Veronica Quaife (Geena Davis) would have been left in complete isolation and despair, with no glimmer of hope or connection to the remnants of Brundle. This would have intensified the tragedy, but at the cost of emotional complexity.
• Absence of Communication: The Brundlefly's intelligence and desperate, albeit grotesque, attempts at communication would have been entirely absent. This element added a crucial layer of pathos, making Brundle's fate more than just a horrific spectacle.

Goldblum's Influence on Shifting the Narrative

Goldblum's acting choices and on-set contributions played a pivotal role in shifting the narrative toward a more emotionally resonant ending. His commitment to portraying Brundle's intellectual brilliance alongside his desperate humanity provided director David Cronenberg with a powerful performance to build upon.

• Humanity Amidst Horror: Goldblum's ability to portray both scientific brilliance and desperate humanity made the transformation both terrifying and sympathetic, creating a far more compelling character arc.
• Collaboration with Cronenberg: Anecdotal evidence suggests Goldblum actively collaborated with Cronenberg to refine Brundle's arc, suggesting improvisations and discussions that might have led to the inclusion of the more emotionally complex elements present in the final version.
• Beyond the Physical: Goldblum's performance emphasized the psychological and emotional torment of Brundle's transformation, influencing the director to focus on more than just the physical horror.

The Power of the Final Cut: How the Change Elevated Goldblum's Performance

The Emotional Resonance of the Released Ending

The emotional impact of the final cut is undeniable. It elevated Goldblum's already powerful performance, transforming it into a legendary cinematic moment. The blend of horror and human drama, the poignancy of Brundle's final moments, and the lasting impact on viewers all stem from this crucial alteration.

• Horror and Human Drama: The final cut masterfully blends body horror with deeply human drama, resulting in a far more impactful and memorable cinematic experience. This balance is largely due to Goldblum’s sensitive and nuanced performance.
• Poignancy of Brundle's Final Moments: The final scene, with Brundle's plea for Veronica to "be afraid... be very afraid," is a powerful testament to the film's success in making the audience deeply empathize with the character, despite his monstrous transformation.
• Enduring Impact: The released ending continues to resonate with audiences today, demonstrating the enduring power of the final cut's emotional complexity and Goldblum's contribution to its success.

The Importance of the Brundlefly

The inclusion of the Brundlefly is crucial. It shapes our understanding of Brundle's journey, adding layers of symbolism and thematic resonance to the narrative.

• Scientific Hubris: The Brundlefly embodies the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition, serving as a cautionary tale against the pursuit of knowledge without ethical consideration.
• Tragic Metaphor: The creature acts as a tragic metaphor for the human condition, highlighting our flaws and vulnerabilities in the face of overwhelming ambition.
• Reflection of Humanity: The Brundlefly reflects our deepest fears about the nature of humanity, the potential for self-destruction, and the consequences of tampering with the natural order.

Conclusion

Jeff Goldblum's portrayal of Seth Brundle in The Fly is a testament to the power of performance and its ability to shape a film's legacy. The near-different conclusion reveals how a seemingly small shift can have a profound impact on a film’s lasting message. The final cut, influenced by Goldblum's talent and collaboration, delivered a far more emotionally resonant and memorable experience, solidifying his status as a cinematic icon. Exploring the various potential endings of The Fly highlights the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the importance of performance in shaping a film's enduring appeal. Delve deeper into Jeff Goldblum's unseen influence on cinema and explore his other iconic roles!