SPOILER FREE REVIEW
Blink Twice is the impressive brainchild and directorial debut of Zoë Kravitz. The film is a perfect showcase of her talent behind the camera in addition to her lengthy acting career. Kravitz has previously made a name for herself as an actress in The Batman, Divergent, Mad Max: Fury Road, and many more. Now, she has released my favorite movie of the year so far blending institution and emotional chaos. Her unique storytelling kept me on the edge of my seat.
Blink Twice follows Frida (Naomi Ackie), a catering waiter with dreams of becoming a nail design technician. Frida is infatuated with billionaire tech mogul Slater King (Channing Tatum). So, after taking a chance and sneaking into one of King’s exclusive fundraisers, she and her best friend, Jess (Alia Shawkat) are unexpectedly whisked away to his luxurious private island. Surrounded by opulence, they are treated to lavish clothing, endless food, and an abundance of alcohol. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly perfect getaway, a darker reality lurks. While they appear to be enjoying themselves, an unsettling atmosphere hints that not everything is as it seems. Thus leading to a gripping exploration of hidden dangers and unexpected twists.
I went into Blink Twice blind and completely unaware of the trigger warning that Amazon MGM Studios had shared before its release. Honestly, I’m glad. I don’t think the film would have hit as hard if I had any inkling of what to expect. Zoë Kravitz is truly masterful behind the camera. Her thoughtful use of color, the strikingly disorienting setting, and the subtle hints of underlying tension all work together brilliantly to create a growing sense of unease, leading us to a powerful crescendo.
The Outstanding Cast of Blink Twice
Channing Tatum excels in the role of the charming playboy, a character type that suits him perfectly. I was familiar with Naomi Ackie from her portrayal of Whitney Houston in Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody. While she delivered a commendable performance in that film, I was pleasantly surprised by the depth she brings to her role in Blink Twice. As Frida, she is truly remarkable, skillfully navigating the turmoil of her shattered dreams and the harsh realities she faces. She makes the ending.
On top of Tatum and Ackie, In addition to Tatum and Ackie, the supporting cast is exceptional, featuring a lineup of all-stars including Geena Davis, Christian Slater, Haley Joel Osment, and Dirt Nasty himself, Simons Rex to name a few. Each character is well-developed and thoughtfully cast, contributing to the film’s dynamic. They each play a crucial role, providing moments of comedic relief that are essential for balancing the tension and preventing the audience from feeling overwhelmed by the horror.
Blink Twice is now playing in theaters. Go see it!