The classic “scientific experiment gone wrong” plot is executed with cool restraint in “Splice”. It is a film more concerned with mood than with action — a choice which is greatly appreciated by this critic. It avoids many of the tired pitfalls we see so often in this genre, allowing it to emerge as a creepy, yet thoughtful little thriller.
Adrian Brody and Sarah Polley play scientists who decide to tinker with spliced DNA and cloning techniques. They bring to life a quirky little creature named Dren, who soon becomes more than a simple experiment. She is a part of the family. Needless to say, Dren does not remain the cute little thing for long.
Delphine Chanéac plays the adult version of the spliced whateveryoucallit… a curious and metamorphosing species who starts to cause trouble in the scientific and romantic relationship of the two leads. What results is both typical and atypical. Of course the film gives us some of the routine monster movie material. However, it seems very concerned with the relationships of its characters. These aren’t just nameless, faceless people. Rather, “Splice” takes time to explore them all in detail. It is a very patient film when compared with others of its ilk.
As a whole, the film is a satisfying effort that eschews excess gore in favor of something a little more substantial. It may not always succeed — but I am very glad that it tried.
