Movie Review: Zoë Kravitz’s ‘Blink Twice’ – A Stylish Yet Confounding Thriller
Zoë Kravitz’s latest directorial venture, Blink Twice, is a visually stunning film that dazzles with its style but falters when it comes to logic and coherence. The film starts with a familiar scene: Slater King (played by Channing Tatum), a tech mogul, sits on a TV couch and delivers a vague apology for an undisclosed wrongdoing. This ritualistic apology, a staple in modern storytelling, sets the stage for a narrative that is as enigmatic as it is stylish.
The Plot and Performances
Blink Twice follows Slater King as he retreats to a remote island, aiming for redemption. The film’s premise is intriguing, especially with Tatum’s charismatic performance as the self-absorbed protagonist. His portrayal is one of the highlights, bringing a mix of charm and smarm to the role. Kravitz, who co-wrote and directed the film, makes a bold statement with her directorial debut, aiming for a gender-themed thriller reminiscent of Jordan Peele’s Get Out and Emerald Fennell’s Promising Young Woman.
Aesthetic Appeal
Kravitz’s direction is marked by its striking visual style and brash confidence. The film is a feast for the eyes, with carefully crafted scenes and a strong aesthetic vision. The setting, costumes, and cinematography all contribute to a film that looks as good as it feels.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its visual splendor, Blink Twice suffers from significant storytelling issues. The film’s narrative collapses under the weight of its own ambition, veering into a maze of illogical plot twists and unresolved elements. The intrusion of gore, while expected in a horror film, is not the problem. Instead, it’s the sudden and jarring departure from logical storytelling that leaves viewers bewildered. Unlike the aforementioned films that effectively balance style with substance, Blink Twice struggles to maintain coherence, leaving audiences to grapple with a film that is as perplexing as it is beautiful.
Blink Twice is a film that triumphs in style but falters in logic. Zoë Kravitz’s ambitious project showcases her directorial flair and Tatum’s engaging performance but ultimately leaves viewers with more questions than answers. For those who appreciate a visually compelling film with a strong cast but can overlook narrative inconsistencies, Blink Twice offers a memorable, if perplexing, cinematic experience.
