Elvis Presley once crooned, “I forgot to remember to forget” in 1955, a sentiment that seems apt for the mental acrobatics required to follow the narrative of this sophisticated and complex horror thriller. Despite its top-tier cast and the intriguing questions it raises about pressing societal issues, Zoë Kravitz’s directorial debut leaves us with more ethical dilemmas than it can satisfactorily address within the confines of a high-end genre film. The premise is both relevant and compelling, akin to a female-led Get Out, yet the script strays from this path, instead opting for the familiar M. Night Shyamalan-style big reveal.
A standout aspect of this film is the casting of the talented Naomi Ackie as Frida, a resilient but downcast gig-economy hospitality worker. Frida spends her nights scrolling aimlessly on her phone, worrying about how to pay her rent. Her spirits lift slightly upon hearing that tech millionaire Slater King (played by Channing Tatum) will be attending one of her events. Despite a stern warning to not be overly forward with the guests, as she has been in the past, Frida remains undeterred. Even after viewing King’s Instagram apology for his “regrettable behavior”, she is not dissuaded. Although the specifics of his transgressions are left to the viewer’s imagination, we learn that King has chosen to step down as CEO to reflect on his actions while doing penance on his private luxury island. His claim of owning chickens serves as his proof of a simpler life.
Frida harbors a soft spot for Slate, attracting men with delicate egos like a magnet. Her sharp-tongued best friend Jess (Alia Shawkat) cautions her, “You’re not a human phone charger. Have some self-respect.” However, both women are smitten by Slater King’s charm. When Frida breaks a high heel, she catches King’s attention. This leads to a Cinderella-like moment and a deep conversation that continues even after the event has ended. King extends an invitation to Frida to visit his island paradise, a proposition that becomes the crux of Blink Twice. This spur-of-the-moment decision could go in any direction. Despite being financially strapped and flattered, they decide to go. Their introduction to the high life, along with three other randomly chosen women to counterbalance King’s male inner circle, exceeds their wildest dreams. Time stands still, with every day feeling like a holiday, replete with endless champagne refills, gourmet meals, and readily available psychedelic drugs. Jess is skeptical, asking, “Don’t you think it’s weird?” Frida dismisses her concerns, replying, “I don’t think it’s weird. I think it’s… rich.” However, the novelty soon wears off, and when Jess vanishes, Frida realizes the potential danger she has put herself in.
The less-than-subtle twist reveals that King hasn’t altered his “regrettable” behavior, simply finding a way to continue on his path without remorse. He dismisses therapy outright and believes trauma should not be dwelled upon. “Forgetting is a gift,” he confidently states, providing a significant hint about the impending unraveling. The film’s central theme is potent, focusing not only on the power dynamics between men and women but also the support systems that emerge among women as a result. The plot delves into the realm of “toxic masculinity”, which is unfortunate as Kravitz’s film was onto something before it veered into familiar revenge territory. The cast, including Christian Slater, Simon Rex, Haley Joe Osment, and Kyle MacLachlan (in a brief cameo), effectively convey a sense of false security. However, Geena Davis outshines them all in her role as King’s subservient personal assistant Stacy, perfectly embodying the character of the overlooked woman who has been aware of the ongoing situation but remains silent.
The film evokes the infamous figures of a disgraced and currently imprisoned Hollywood producer and the secretive sex-trafficking world of the notorious Jeffrey Epstein. However, combining these two contemporary villains seems futile when Channing Tatum is cast in the lead role. Despite the courage required for him to take on this role and his convincing performance, Blink Twice appears just as starstruck by his presence as Frida is. The ending may provide a sense of catharsis and could even be interpreted as empowering, but it falls short of its potential, resorting to an easy way out.
Title: Blink Twice
Director: Zoë Kravitz
Screenwriter: Zoë Kravitz, E.T. Feigenbaum
Cast: Naomi Ackie, Channing Tatum, Christian Slate, Alia Shawkat, Simon Rex, Geena Davis, Haley Joel Osment, Kyle MacLachlan
Distributor: Amazon MGM Studios / Warner Bros
Rating: R
Running time: 1 hr 43 min
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Credit: deadline.com
