This psychological thriller follows two beauties down on their luck. Frida played by Naomi Ackie and Jess played by Alia Shawkat are doting roommates that have a bond that only years of supporting each other and fighting through struggles would create. The two are heading out to their catering job for the Multi-billion dollar tech company. This company was once headed by and is now funded by the now reformed, clear-eyed, chiseled and ensnaring billionaire, Slater, played by Channing Tatum. Slater, who has had a jaded past that he has atoned for, sought therapy and now lives on a remote island where he raises chickens. This same billionaire who complimented Frida on her nails, a compliment that acted as a spark of hope for a brighter future causing her to pine after Slater. This time she’s determined to make an impression.
After sneaking away from their job, Frida and Jess join in on the festivities, meeting and shaking hands with the elites. It doesn’t take long for Frida to be involved in a glorious accident. Slater King flies in and sweeps her off her feet, or in this case, frees her of her heels. After a night of flirtatious bliss with the affluent King, Frida achieves her goal of making an impression and both Frida and Jess get invited to the billionaire’s island. An island where they are waited on hand and foot, imbibing themselves in the finest food, wine and drugs living the life of ecstasy. At this point, you may be wondering where the psychological thrill is in this review, I want you to think about how money corrupts.
This being the first feature-length film that Zoë Kravitz has written and directed, I have to commend her on her ability to build tension and convey depth through subtle imagery. Kravitz’s vision for this film did not skip the costuming. Once we landed on the island, the women were consistently draped in lavish garments, the common thread being that they were always dressed in clinical and clean white. The visage of innocence and peace almost begging to be corrupted by a spill or grass stain.
Though the story is somewhat predictable and linear, reminiscent of classics like Death Proof. Blink Twice tackles themes of feminine competition, the nature of a bystander, processing trauma and accountability in the public eye. Accurate and cutting commentary on today’s environment examples of which are in the public eye. The cast puts on a brilliant performance that keeps the audience engaged on the edge of their seats.
