One of the most exquisite pieces of cinema ever.
A couple's relationship is tested when uninvited guests arrive at their home, disrupting their tranquil existence.
Darren Aronofsky is a brilliant director/writer. Everything we see is purposeful, every line well calculated. The colour scheme is brilliant, almost looking washed out until “visitors” bring life into the house. There’s maybe 25 long shots in the whole 2-hr film, the rest is close-ups and mid-shots. This creates amazing cinematic tension, giving an almost claustrophobic feel to the whole cinema.
The script is social commentary, filled with metaphor and symbolism. It’s an exceptionally clever film, which no doubt will be studied in film schools for years to come. Jennifer Lawrence gives one of the best performances of her career and Javier Bardem is beautifully menacing. Ed Harris and Michelle Pfeiffer give equally well-calculated performances. Brothers, Brian and Domhnall Gleeson play cinematic brothers with a mix of hate and contempt. Kristen Wiig also gives a strong performance, albeit in a small role. The whole “chorus” is fantastic.
No single character is named, which helps with the metaphor, which I won’t explain - as the less you know the better going into this film. I do warn you that this film is horrific, certainly not one for the weak spirited. However, this is the kind of film that reminds you how excellent cinema can be and how it can evoke emotional reaction and conversation for days and weeks to come.
Overall a superb piece of cinematic artwork that deserves watching thousands of times to be fully understand. Aronovsky’s best work.
5 Stars
Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay
Screening courtesy of Palace Nova Cinemas