JuliaMaia is a writer and filmmaker originally from Brazil. She grew up watching every piece of television and film she encountered from all over the world, which inspired her to come to Los Angeles to study film. She always knew that in order to be happy and fulfilled she had to be surrounded by art. She is always in search of the next film, show or performance that will inspire her. Her background in filmmaking helps her appreciate the technical elements of a film, as well as relish the journey of each story being told. There is not a topic Maia enjoys talking about more than film and the film industry and how it impacts the world and vice versa. The Hollywood Insider is the perfect platform for Maia to participate in the discourse about anything film related with many that , much like herself, love to take part in real important conversations and deeply appreciate the art of telling stories.
Sep 26, 2024
Table of Contents
‘Blink Twice’ (2024) is the psychological thriller written and directed by Zoë Kravitz, marking her directorial debut. The film explores complex and disturbing themes, such as manipulation, power dynamics and abuse.
We follow a nail artist/ cocktail waitress named Frida (Naomi Ackie) as she and her best friend Jess (Alia Shawkat) are given the opportunity to join tech mogul billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) on his private island. What starts as an idyllic getaway quickly turns into a nightmare for the women involved.
Kravitz and her ‘High Fidelity’ (2020) collaborator E.T. Feigenbaum began developing the story and script for ‘Blink Twice’ in the wake of the #MeToo movement, drawing inspiration from many of the revelations that surfaced in Hollywood during that time. These real-world references to abuse and systemic inequality give the film a contemporary relevance, making its themes even more impactful.
At the heart of the film is its exploration of power dynamics, particularly between men and women in society. The narrative focuses on how wealth and gender intersect to create imbalances of power. Slater King, embodies this dynamic, using his privilege and influence to control the people on his island. The film uses his character to critique not only gender-based power structures but also class privilege, reflecting on how money and status can be used to manipulate others.
The film doesn’t shy away from addressing the dynamics of sexual politics, particularly consent and abuse. Many of the female characters become trapped in cycles of manipulation and control, often unaware of how deeply they are being exploited. By tackling these issues, ‘Blink Twice’ contributes to ongoing conversations about privilege, power, and the pervasive effects of abuse in society.
Performances
The performances in ‘Blink Twice’ are universally strong and compelling, each actor delivering layered and captivating portrayals. Naomi Ackie shines as Frida, seamlessly blending the carefree, spontaneous nature of a girl with a crush with the logical, terrified woman grappling with survival. Her ability to convey this emotional range is crucial to keeping the audience on edge of their seats.
Channing Tatum is a surprising standout as the manipulative and sinister Slater King, offering a departure from the charming good-guy roles he’s typically known for. He brings a disturbing creepiness to the character, effectively portraying a man who uses power with chilling precision.
Adria Arjona’s performance as Sarah is equally remarkable. She expertly plays the role of the jealous and antagonistic member of the group, and when her character is overcome with fear, she makes the audience feel it too. Arjona’s ability to evoke such strong emotions in viewers makes her performance particularly memorable and impactful.
The visual elements in ‘Blink Twice’ play a critical role in its storytelling, using production design and cinematography to enhance the atmosphere and themes. The film contrasts the sleek, modern (almost futuristic) look of the auction event with the more laid-back, yet lavish, tropical island setting, creating a stark visual difference between the real world and the paradise-like island. This contrast highlights the allure of the island, making the real world seem mundane and dreary in comparison, while the island feels like a seductive, almost otherworldly escape—a place you’d never want to leave.
The cinematography and color palette further amplify this sense of paradise. The lush nature shots, combined with vivid, warm colors, immerse both the characters and the audience in the beauty of the Slater King Island. These vibrant colors evoke feelings of happiness and comfort, making the characters’ immersion in the island feel all the more believable and appealing. Through these visual cues, the film draws the audience into the same sense of paradise and tranquility that ultimately becomes central to the story’s tension and contrasts what actually goes on in the island.
One of the film’s notable less favorable elements lies in its storytelling. While world-building is essential to setting the plot and the scene, the extended focus on establishing the island’s luxurious setting feels overly drawn out. This heavy emphasis on the environment delays the film’s progression, the shift to intense violence and the focus on sexual abuse, feels rather sudden and quite rushed. The transition from paradise to horror is abrupt, making the pivotal moments feel underdeveloped.
Given the weight of the film’s commentary on power dynamics and exploitation, the story could have benefited from more time exploring these critical themes with greater nuance. Instead, the film’s message, while powerful, lacks the depth and careful examination needed to fully resonate. As a result, the film occasionally sacrifices thoughtful exploration of its social commentary in favor of shock value, diminishing the impact of its otherwise important narrative.
‘Blink Twice’ marks a bold and promising directorial debut for Zoë Kravitz, delivering a visually captivating thriller. While the film boasts a strong cast and impressive visuals, its exploration of power, abuse, and exploitation feels somewhat underdeveloped. The film succeeds in building psychological tension and intrigue, making it a compelling watch for those who enjoy thrillers with a blend of social critique. If you’re drawn to films that balance dark themes with suspense, ‘Blink Twice’ (2024) is certainly worth the watch.
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JuliaMaia is a writer and filmmaker originally from Brazil. She grew up watching every piece of television and film she encountered from all over the world, which inspired her to come to Los Angeles to study film. She always knew that in order to be happy and fulfilled she had to be surrounded by art. She is always in search of the next film, show or performance that will inspire her. Her background in filmmaking helps her appreciate the technical elements of a film, as well as relish the journey of each story being told. There is not a topic Maia enjoys talking about more than film and the film industry and how it impacts the world and vice versa. The Hollywood Insider is the perfect platform for Maia to participate in the discourse about anything film related with many that , much like herself, love to take part in real important conversations and deeply appreciate the art of telling stories.
JuliaMaia is a writer and filmmaker originally from Brazil. She grew up watching every piece of television and film she encountered from all over the world, which inspired her to come to Los Angeles to study film. She always knew that in order to be happy and fulfilled she had to be surrounded by art. She is always in search of the next film, show or performance that will inspire her. Her background in filmmaking helps her appreciate the technical elements of a film, as well as relish the journey of each story being told. There is not a topic Maia enjoys talking about more than film and the film industry and how it impacts the world and vice versa. The Hollywood Insider is the perfect platform for Maia to participate in the discourse about anything film related with many that , much like herself, love to take part in real important conversations and deeply appreciate the art of telling stories.
JuliaMaia is a writer and filmmaker originally from Brazil. She grew up watching every piece of television and film she encountered from all over the world, which inspired her to come to Los Angeles to study film. She always knew that in order to be happy and fulfilled she had to be surrounded by art. She is always in search of the next film, show or performance that will inspire her. Her background in filmmaking helps her appreciate the technical elements of a film, as well as relish the journey of each story being told. There is not a topic Maia enjoys talking about more than film and the film industry and how it impacts the world and vice versa. The Hollywood Insider is the perfect platform for Maia to participate in the discourse about anything film related with many that , much like herself, love to take part in real important conversations and deeply appreciate the art of telling stories.
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