In 1980 an innovative filmmaker named Ken Russell (Clan of the Cave Bear) took on the challenge of adapting author Paddy Chayefski's soul searching pilgrimage of one mans journey into himself,"ALTERED STATES" into a feature film. The result, a mind-blowing explosion of the senses that makes one questions reality itself and where we truly come from. The story centers on a brilliant young research scientist, Dr. Eddie Jessup (William Hurt in his feature film debut) who theorizes that other states of consciousness are as real as normal everyday reality, in which one can see, smell, taste and hear, and experience fully different realities whether they be in time or space.

To prove his radical theory Jessup experiments with sensory deprivation and powerful hallucinogenic drugs. Haunted by his own inner demons Jessup unwittingly unleashes the dormant primal forces within him and in the end nearly destroys him and his loved ones.

The film also stars Blair Brown, Bob Balaban, and Charles Haid and if you look closely you'll spot a very young Drew Barrymore in her first credited film appearance some 3 years before her breakout performance in "ET; the Extraterrestrial".

The film is well directed by Russell and is stunningly photographed with some surprisingly effective visuals thrown in. James Shourt and Robert Blaylock created some of the most amazing makeup effects for this film along with amazing optical effects.

Initially it received a lukewarm welcome in theatres but over the years has gained cult status and is recognized as one of the most stunning, effective sci-fi films of the past twenty years.

The film is currently available on DVD and videotape.