The Genius 1993
Dive into the chaotic, low-budget sci-fi satire *The Genius (1993)* and lose yourself in the avant-garde art scene of 1990s Lower Manhattan.
Director: Emily Breer
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Genius (1993) about?
Joe Gibbons stars as a fringe scientist who invents a way to swap personalities, diving into obsession when a rebellious performance artist (Karen Finley) becomes his target. The film blends sci-fi absurdity with a scathing critique of the art world's hypocrisies, all set against the gritty backdrop of 1990s Manhattan.
Who directed The Genius?
The Genius was written, produced, and directed by Joe Gibbons, who also stars in the film.
Who stars in The Genius?
The film features Joe Gibbons, Karen Finley, Tony Oursler, Tony Conrad, and Adolfas Mekas in its core cast.
Is The Genius (1993) worth watching?
While it's an unrated cult oddity, *The Genius* is a fascinating watch for fans of experimental sci-fi and underground art films. Its rough-hewn charm and bold themes make it a standout for those who crave something far outside the mainstream.
How long is The Genius?
The runtime of *The Genius* is 86 minutes.
About The Genius (1993) — A Madcap Sci-Fi Satire from the Underground Art Scene
Dive into the chaotic, low-budget sci-fi satire *The Genius (1993)* and lose yourself in the avant-garde art scene of 1990s Lower Manhattan. Created by writer-director Joe Gibbons—who also stars as a deranged scientist—this film blends sharp social commentary with anarchic energy, exploring themes of identity, rebellion, and the absurdity of capitalism. Gibbons' madcap invention involves a personality-transfer technique that becomes his obsession, especially when it collides with the radical antics of an underground performance artist played by Karen Finley. Shot in a raw, experimental style, the movie feels like a time capsule of underground art culture, where science fiction meets street-level chaos.
The vibe is unpolished but electric, mixing uncomfortable humor with a rebellious spirit that questions authority at every turn. With its offbeat cast of performers and artists, including Tony Oursler and Tony Conrad, *The Genius* isn't just a movie—it's a statement. Whether you're drawn to its genre-bending plot or its unfiltered critique of the art world, this cult curiosity offers a wild ride through the fringe of 1990s New York.