Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, "Blink Twice," presents a familiar narrative that echoes recent psychological thrillers. The film's plot revolves around a tropical island party hosted by a tech billionaire, with underlying themes of power dynamics and deception.
The story follows Frida, portrayed by Naomi Ackie, a cocktail waitress who catches the eye of wealthy tech mogul Slater King, played by Channing Tatum. Frida and her friend Jess (Alia Shawkat) are invited to King's private island for a lavish party, setting the stage for a series of mysterious events.
While the film's premise may seem derivative, Kravitz demonstrates a keen eye for style and atmosphere in her directorial approach. The early island scenes are particularly engaging, showcasing sharp dialogue and intriguing character dynamics.
The cast delivers strong performances, with Tatum offering a nuanced portrayal of the enigmatic billionaire. Adria Arjona stands out as Sarah, a reality TV star vying for King's attention, creating tension with Frida. The supporting cast, including Simon Rex, Christian Slater, and Haley Joel Osment, adds depth to the ensemble with their portrayals of King's entourage.
However, as the plot unfolds, "Blink Twice" struggles to maintain its coherence. The film attempts to address themes of gaslighting and abuse of power but falls short in its execution. Plot holes and improbabilities become increasingly apparent, challenging the audience's suspension of disbelief.
"The back end of 'Blink Twice' is standard thriller territory, but it's enlivened by the sudden camaraderie of Frida and Sarah, the smartest two people on the island as well as the most endangered."
Kravitz's film draws comparisons to recent works like "Get Out," "Midsommar," and "Don't Worry Darling," which have set a high bar for psychological thrillers with social commentary. While "Blink Twice" shares similar themes, it lacks the narrative cohesion and originality that made those films stand out.
Despite its shortcomings, the movie maintains a brisk pace that may keep viewers engaged throughout its 102-minute runtime. However, upon reflection, audiences may find themselves questioning the logic and plausibility of the story's twists and turns.
In conclusion, "Blink Twice" serves as a stylish but flawed directorial debut for Zoë Kravitz. While it showcases her potential as a filmmaker and features commendable performances from its cast, the film ultimately falls short of leaving a lasting impression in the crowded landscape of psychological thrillers.