Synopsis

After surviving a plane crash, U.N. negotiator Edward Douglas is rescued and taken to a remote island controlled by the enigmatic Dr. Moreau. There, Douglas discovers a forbidden laboratory where animals are being transformed into human-like creatures. As the experiments destabilize the island's fragile society, Douglas must escape before Moreau's creations revolt and spread chaos beyond the island.

Factoids & Trivia

• The film is the third major feature adaptation of H.G. Wells' 1896 novel, following Island of Lost Souls (1932) and The Island of Dr. Moreau (1977).

• The production became notorious for its problems. It moved from Los Angeles to northern Queensland, Australia, faced intense tropical weather, and was disrupted by a hurricane that destroyed sets and equipment.

• The original filmmaker had spent approximately four years developing the project before being dismissed only a few days into principal photography. He later returned to the set in disguise as one of the dog-men and appeared among the background performers.

• Bruce Willis was originally attached to the lead role, but withdrew before filming. Val Kilmer was moved into the smaller role of Montgomery, while David Thewlis ultimately took over the central part.

• Stan Winston Studio created many of the practical creature effects, while Digital Domain produced computer-generated effects and used motion-capture techniques that were still relatively new in major films.

• Marlon Brando reportedly received his dialogue through an earpiece rather than memorizing it. The receiver sometimes picked up unrelated radio transmissions, adding to the production's legendary chaos.

• Brando's character was originally intended to have a larger role. The actor's absence following the death of his daughter left the production trying to reorganize scenes around his availability.

• The 2014 documentary Lost Soul: The Doomed Journey of Richard Stanley's Island of Dr. Moreau examines the film's troubled development and became an important part of the movie's later reputation.

• The diminutive character Majai was cited as an inspiration for Mini-Me in the Austin Powers films.