Movie Review: The Dentist (1996)
Synopsis:
The 1996 horror-thriller, The Dentist, directed by Adam Simon, plunges the viewer into the unsettling world of Dr.Alan Feinstone (played by Corbin Bernsen), a successful and seemingly reputable dentist living in California. Dr. Feinstone appears to have the perfect life, complete with a luxurious home and a beautiful wife, but beneath the veneer of his polished existence simmers a deep-seated neurosis and rage. After discovering that his wife, Brooke (played by Linda Hoffman), is having an affair with his best friend, the emotional turmoil drives him over the edge.
Renouncing his professional ethics, Dr. Feinstone’s mental collapse transforms him into a sadistic maniac, wielding dental tools as instruments of torture rather than healing. The narrative unfolds as he embarks on a campaign of terror, confronting patients in his clinic and pursuing his wife with murderous intent. The film cleverly exploits the common fear of visiting the dentist, utilising the sterile, clinical environment to create a claustrophobic and suspenseful atmosphere. As he spirals into madness, Dr. Feinstone’s character grapples with both his professional duties and his personal demons, leading to a grotesque series of events.
List of Actors and Characters:
- Corbin Bernsen as Dr. Alan Feinstone
- Linda Hoffman as Brooke Feinstone
- Jeffrey Combs as Dr. Johnathan
- Gwynyth Walsh as the dental patient, Carrie
- Michael G. Linscott as Steven
- Matt McCoy as Jim, the friend
- Bobbie Phillips as a dental assistant
- Frances Bay as a dental patient
- Juanita Brown as the receptionist
Review:
The Dentist is not merely a horror film; it dives deep into the psyche of a man unravelling in the face of betrayal and personal failure. At its core, the film treats its premise with a sense of dark humour, blending slapstick gore with moments of visceral terror. The film’s portrayal of Dr. Feinstone’s descent into madness is poignantly portrayed by Corbin Bernsen, whose performance captures both the facade of the perfect dentist and the grotesque reality beneath.
One of the film’s significant achievements is its ability to transform the mundane environment of a dental clinic into a nightmarish realm. The bright lights, sterile suggestions of cleanliness, and the soothing sounds typically associated with a visit to the dentist are twisted into a horrifying setting where every drill sound incites anxiety rather than relief. The screenplay cleverly interlaces typical dental scenarios—extractions, cleanings, and root canals—with horrific outcomes, challenging the viewer to confront their implicit fears surrounding dental work.
While The Dentist does build its narrative on a familiar trope—the professional who loses his grip on reality—it distinguishes itself with its offbeat approach, punctuated by dark humour and satirical undertones. The character of Dr. Feinstone is compellingly flawed, which invites the audience to engage with his journey, however twisted it may be. The exploration of his breakdown draws parallels to broader themes of betrayal, mental health, and the fragility of human relationships.
Visually, the film blends brightly lit clinical settings with shadowy, claustrophobic shots that heighten the sense of discomfort throughout. The cinematography is utilitarian, allowing the film’s grim and surreal elements to emerge without excessive ornamentation. The special effects deserve mention, making the most of practical effects to elicit visceral reactions—after all, if your greatest fear is drilling and pulling teeth, watching it happen in such a heightened manner will leave a mark.
However, while The Dentist features a strong central performance and effectively eerie atmosphere, it does flirt with the line of absurdity at times. Some moments are so exaggerated that they are difficult to reconcile with the film’s attempt at seriousness. The portrayal of Dr. Feinstone’s madness oscillates between terrifying and laughable, making one question whether the tonal choices are deliberate or accidental. These inconsistencies at times compromise the film’s impact, leading to a somewhat uneven viewing experience.
The supporting cast does a commendable job, particularly Linda Hoffman as his unfaithful wife Brooke. Her character, although not deeply explored, serves as the inciting force for Dr. Feinstone’s collapse, and the chemistry between her and Bernsen adds layers to the conflict. Combs, well-known in horror circles for his unique character portrayals, delivers a solid performance that contrasts with Bernsen’s angst-driven lead.
In considering the film’s ultimate effectiveness, it must be recognised that The Dentist has earned its place in the cult horror genre, thriving on the psychological terror rooted in its premise. It bears Shakespearean undertones where betrayal and madness lead to destruction, albeit wrapped in a layer of grotesque and absurd comedy. The exploration of dental fear is satirical and exaggerated, poking fun at societal anxieties surrounding health and appearance, which resonates on both a humorous and severe level.
For those seeking a grotesque jaunt into the horrors of dental practices, The Dentist serves an entertainment value that is undeniable, particularly among horror aficionados who appreciate a blend of humour with shock. It crafts a cautionary tale about the risks of unchecked emotions and the fragility of trust, set against the backdrop of the dentist’s chair—an effective metaphor for vulnerability.
In conclusion, The Dentist successfully captures the essence of horror through the lens of psychological terrors, utilising its setting and performances to enthral and horrify. While at times it may veer into the absurd, its commitment to exploring the darker recesses of human experience garners it a space in the pantheon of cult horror films. For its audacious and darkly humorous take on a tangible fear, I would rate The Dentist a solid 7 out of 10. It may not be a masterpiece, but it delivers sufficient shocks and laughs to etch itself into the minds of its audience—just perhaps not before their next dental appointment.
