Brain Damage (film)

Brain Damage is a 1988 American horror film written, produced, and directed by Frank Henenlotter. It tells the story of Brian, a young man living in New York City whose life is turned upside down when he becomes host to a parasitic creature named Aylmer, a sentient, phallic-shaped being who secretes a highly addictive psychoactive fluid from its head.

Aylmer provides Brian with euphoric hallucinations in exchange for being allowed to feed on human brains. As Brian's dependence on Aylmer's secretions increases, he finds himself increasingly unable to control Aylmer's violent urges, leading to a series of gruesome murders. The film explores themes of addiction, morality, and the loss of control. It is known for its graphic special effects, dark humor, and surreal atmosphere.

The film stars Rick Hearst as Brian, John Zacherle as the voice of Aylmer, and Kevin Van Hentenryck, who previously starred in Henenlotter's Basket Case. Brain Damage received a mixed reception upon its release but has since gained a cult following for its unique and outrageous premise. It is considered a significant work in the "splatterpunk" subgenre of horror.