In the 1990s, Hollywood experienced a significant boom in information technology, but the content of its films struggled to keep up with technological advancements. One such example is Host, also known as Virtual Obsession, a 1998 television film directed by Mick Garris.
Based on a novel by Peter James, the plot follows Dr. Joe Messenger (played by Peter Gallagher), a scientist overseeing a powerful computer that conducts experiments simulating human brain activity. When young scientist Juliet Spring (played by Bridgette Wilson) joins the team and tries to seduce Joe, he must navigate a complex web of fidelity and technology. As the story unfolds, Joe discovers that his deceased wife Karen (played by Mimi Rogers) has uploaded her consciousness into the computer, leading to a chilling confrontation.
While the concept of blending virtual reality with a Fatal Attraction-like plot had potential, the screenplay by Preston Sturgess Jr. and Mick Garris falls short of fully exploring themes of immortality and technology. Hindered by a low budget and lack of imaginative storytelling, Virtual Obsession relies on predictable horror tropes and fails to develop compelling characters. Despite the intriguing dynamic between Juliet and Karen, the film ultimately misses the mark and fades into obscurity.
RATING: 2/10 (-)
(Note: This review was originally posted on the Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.films.reviews on April 22nd, 2004)
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