Weirdhouse Cinema: Of Unknown Origin
Summary
Weird House Cinema hosts Rob Lamb and Joe McCormick analyze the 1983 horror film Of Unknown Origin, directed by George P. Cosmatos and starring Peter Weller. The episode explores the film’s premise of a yuppie executive battling a giant rat in his Manhattan brownstone, discussing its themes of midlife crisis and consumerism. They also cover the movie’s cult following, its connection to Stephen King, and insights from a new interview with Weller regarding the production.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and introduction to the film's premise
The 'crazy elevator pitch' and cult following
Stephen King's endorsement and Moby Dick parallels
Character analysis: Bart as a realistic protagonist
Rat biology, survival, and special effects
The origin of the title 'Of Unknown Origin'
Blu-ray features and director David Cronenberg's history
Cronenberg's filmography and style evolution
The source novel and author background
Director Penelope Spheeris and production details
Peter Weller's performance and character motivation
Rats in urban environments and feral cats
Weller's acting process and environmental themes
Sponsor breaks and transition to cast discussion
Supporting cast: Shannon Tweed, Louis Del Grande, others
Special effects and practical rat usage
Plot setup: The family trip and Bart's isolation
Workplace conflicts and the first rat encounter
Bart's obsession grows: Research and paranoia
Methods of killing rats and the dinner party scene
Escalating tactics: Poison, cats, and exterminators
The final showdown and thematic resolution
Conclusion and final sponsor reads
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