The Dentist (1996)

January 30, 2025

Imagine sitting in a waiting room, the scent of antiseptic hanging in the air, when suddenly you begin to question your life decisions. What’s lurking behind that pristine dental chair? If you’ve ever found yourself feeling uneasy during a routine dental visit, then the 1996 film “The Dentist,” directed by Brian Yuzna, is about to validate those fears in the most absurdly entertaining way possible. This movie thrusts us into a world where the dentist isn’t just the guy with the drill—he’s the nightmare you didn’t see coming.

“The Dentist” introduces us to Dr. Alan Feinstone, played with sizzling intensity by Corbin Bernsen. At first glance, he’s the epitome of competence: a successful dentist loved and respected by his patients. But as the film unfolds, we’re taken on a wild ride through Dr. Feinstone’s unraveling sanity, pivoting from helplessness to horror. The film flawlessly balances dark humor with spine-tingling suspense, allowing us to both laugh at and cringe from the bizarre situations that arise. Trust me, after watching this, you might reconsider your dentist’s recommendations for those “necessary” procedures.

What makes the film truly shine are the performances. Corbin Bernsen delivers a brilliantly nuanced portrayal of Dr. Feinstone. He manages to oscillate between charmingly unhinged and terrifyingly obsessive with expert precision. Bernsen’s transformation from a mild-mannered practitioner to a man utterly consumed by jealousy and anger is captivating. His inner turmoil manifests in such a way that you can’t help but empathize with him—even as he takes a sociopathic turn that leaves you questioning your dental hygiene.

And let’s not forget the supporting cast! Lisa Waltz as the seductive and manipulative patient, and Jeffrey Combs, who sports a quirky role as a seemingly innocent yet pivotal character, add delightful layers to the story. The chemistry between Bernsen and Waltz pulses with tension, particularly during their interactions that blend seduction with sinister undertones. Each character, flawed and fascinating, contributes to the film’s absurdity, making for a thrilling dynamic that keeps you on your toes.

Yuzna’s storytelling style deftly blends elements of horror and dark comedy, providing moments that force viewers to confront their own fears. The film cleverly satirizes our cultural obsession with dental perfection, using Dr. Feinstone’s descent into madness as a lens to explore themes of control, anxiety, and the consequences of a fractured mind. Iconic moments, like the jaw-dropping scene of Dr. Feinstone’s unsettling “dental work,” encapsulate the film’s essence: it’s both shocking and comically surreal, effectively keeping the audience off-balance and entertained.

Visually, “The Dentist” takes us on a journey through a meticulously crafted suburban landscape that feels all too familiar yet unsettlingly ominous. The sterile, gleaming aesthetics of the dental office clash brilliantly with the chaos that ensues within its walls. Cinematographer Jean de Segonzac’s camera work enhances the film’s creepy ambiance, utilizing tight shots that amplify the claustrophobia, while wider angles juxtapose Dr. Feinstone’s escalating madness with the mundane world outside. Each frame feels deliberate, pulling you deeper into the chilling yet darkly humorous narrative.

At its core, “The Dentist” explores larger themes that resonate as much today as they did at its release. It dives into the chaos that can lurk beneath the surface of everyday life, examining how easily one can slip from a seemingly normal existence into madness. Fear of losing control, particularly in a field that demands complete trust, lays the groundwork for a thrilling narrative that leaves viewers questioning the very fabric of sanity. This isn’t just a horror film; it’s a commentary on the fragility of the human psyche and the underlying anxieties we often bury beneath routine.

In conclusion, “The Dentist” is an unforgettable mix of horror and hilarity—a film that will have you checking your dental appointment schedule twice and maybe even reconsidering that third helping of candy. Whether you’re a horror aficionado or someone just looking for a uniquely thrilling cinematic experience, this film offers something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, settle into your seat, and prepare to be entertained in the most delightfully twisted way. Dr. Feinstone awaits, and believe me, by the end of the film, you’ll never look at a dental drill the same way again. Dive in, and let yourself be swept away by this gem of a film—after all, who knew that a trip to the dentist could be so engaging?