Altered States
1980 film by Ken Russell · Released 1980
Altered States is a 1980 American experimental surrealist science fiction horror film directed by Ken Russell, and adapted by playwright and screenwriter Paddy Chayefsky from his 1978 novel of the same name. The novel and the film are based in part on John C. Lilly's sensory deprivation research conducted in isolation tanks under the influence of psychoactive drugs like mescaline, ketamine, and LSD. The film features the elements of body and psychological horror. Chayefsky withdrew from the project after disputes with Russell and took his name off the credits, substituting "Sidney Aaron", his actual first and middle names. The film stars William Hurt, Blair Brown, Bob Balaban, and Charles Haid.
Cast ages at release (1980)
- William Hurt, as Eddie Jessup: 29–30
- Blair Brown, as Emily Jessup: 33–34
- Bob Balaban, as Arthur Rosenberg: 34–35
- Charles Haid, as Mason Parrish: 36–37
- Thaao Penghlis, as Eduardo Echeverria: 34–35
- Drew Barrymore, as Margaret Jessup: 4–5
- George Gaynes, as Dr. Wissenschaft: 62–63
- John Larroquette, as X-Ray Technician: 32–33
- Francis X. McCarthy, as Obispo: 37–38