Glenn Close's Sci-Fi Horror Gem Streams Free
Glenn Close fans have a reason to celebrate this Halloween weekend: her 2016 sci-fi horror film The Girl With All the Gifts is now available to stream for free on Tubi and Pluto TV. The ad-supported platforms offer a no-subscription path to the acclaimed film, which has been described as an underrated entry in the zombie genre.
Directed by Colm McCarthy and based on Mike Carey's novel, the movie stars Close as Dr. Caldwell, a scientist studying infected children at a military base after a fungal infection has decimated humanity. Sennia Nanua plays Melanie, a brilliant young girl who may hold the key to a cure. The film also features Gemma Arterton as a sympathetic teacher. As reported by BGR, the movie stands out for its unique approach to the overpopulated zombie subgenre, focusing on the humanity of the infected children rather than mindless horror.
A Rare Genre Turn for Close
The role of Dr. Caldwell is a rare foray into science fiction and horror for Close, who is more commonly associated with dramatic and psychological roles. The film's availability on free platforms like Tubi and Pluto TV gives viewers a chance to see her in a different light. According to El-Balad.com, the streaming window may be temporary, so interested viewers should act fast.
Michael Douglas Reflects on Fatal Attraction Casting
In related news, Michael Douglas has admitted that he and the filmmakers were initially wrong about casting Glenn Close in the iconic role of Alex Forrest in the 1987 thriller Fatal Attraction. During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show airing Friday, Douglas recalled that they didn't think Close was right for the part, but she insisted on auditioning and ultimately blew them away. "We had never been so wrong in our lives. We were idiots," he said, according to Yahoo Entertainment.
Close, who earned an Oscar nomination for her performance, also revealed that she fought against the film's original ending, which was more film noir and had her character slitting her throat and Douglas's character going to jail. Test audiences disliked it, so she was asked to reshoot the ending six months later. "I fought against it and was very cross as I didn't see her as a psychopath. But they wore me down and Alex became the most hated woman in America," she said.
A Lasting Legacy
The reunion of Douglas and Close on the talk show highlights the enduring impact of Fatal Attraction, which became a cultural touchstone and defined the "bunny boiler" trope. Their reflections offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creative struggles that shaped one of the most memorable films of the 1980s.
Glenn Close Makes Red Carpet Return After Surgery
Close also made headlines this week with her first red carpet appearance since undergoing hip replacement surgery. On October 28, she attended The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping U.K. fan screening in London, debuting a dramatic new hairstyle—a curly, platinum-blonde updo—paired with a moss-green taffeta dress, black leather gloves, and a walking cane. The event marked her return to public life after surgery.
Close stars as Drusilla Sickle in the Hunger Games prequel, a Capitol escort with a flair for maximalist fashion. The film is set to premiere in theaters on November 20. Her appearance and the film's upcoming release have generated buzz, reminding audiences of her versatility across genres.
A Busy Season for Close
Between the free streaming release of The Girl With All the Gifts, the nostalgic look back at Fatal Attraction, and her role in the highly anticipated Hunger Games prequel, Glenn Close is having a moment. Her ability to remain relevant across decades and genres is a testament to her talent and willingness to take risks.
The Broader Picture: Close's Enduring Appeal
The confluence of these stories—a free streaming opportunity, a candid retrospective, and a blockbuster franchise role—underscores Glenn Close's unique position in Hollywood. At 79, she continues to work prolifically, from indie genre films to major studio tentpoles. Her recent red carpet appearance, cane and all, also highlights her resilience and grace following surgery.
For fans, the message is clear: whether you want to revisit her chilling performance in Fatal Attraction or discover her underrated turn in The Girl With All the Gifts, there are plenty of ways to appreciate Close's work right now. And with The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping on the horizon, her star shows no signs of dimming.
As streaming platforms continue to revive overlooked gems, The Girl With All the Gifts serves as a reminder that even in a saturated genre, strong performances and fresh perspectives can stand out. Close's involvement elevates the material, and its free availability may introduce a new generation to her work.
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