Another in the genre of “eat the rich” satire flicks, this one was a fun watch, because at times you’ll think of Midsommar, Get Out, and the underrated Don’t Worry, Darling.
Now, I usually complain about nepo babies in Hollywood. This had two – Ethan Hawke’s son (the worst character in the film) and Zoe Kravitz. Yet as a director, she did a great job (she also co-wrote, and that’s where it was a bit weak).
The two actresses we meet first, have the perfect look for these characters. Frida (Naomi Ackie, who has a cute, interesting look) and Jess (comedic actress Alia Shawkat from Arrested Development) work as waitresses for ritzy parties. There’s a black-tie event bringing disgraced billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) to town. My wife thought Slater King was the perfect name, but when I saw Christian Slater as one of his slimy, frat-boy buddies, I kept thinking of him when they say the name “Slater.”
King talks a good game about his therapy, and knowing he was wrong, and asking for forgiveness. So it was rather kind of him, to invite these two women to an island he just purchased. Hmmmm.
This sort of Epstein Island has a lot of women, a few that seem bothered by others there, as they’re probably all vying to be queen for Mr. King. They have chefs prepare amazing meals, which are followed by pot and hallucinogens.
It’s nice how, just like with “Don’t Worry, Darling” it takes a while to get to the darker aspects of the story (of which I wouldn’t begin to spoil).
The cast does a terrific job. Adria Arjona is beautiful, and has some snarky expressions. Tatum exudes charm nicely. Geena Davis is great as the clumsy assistant (who has a great line about “forgetting is a gift” – which made me think of one of the best movies ever made – Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind).
It was nice to see Haley Joel Osment, with goofy sunglasses, always playing a ukulele. Kyle MacLachlan plays the therapist in a few scenes, and we’re not sure just how creepy he is in all this.
There were nice touches of humor, and terrific visuals. The use of James Brown’s “The Boss” was perfect; although as sexy as the song “Jungle Fever” is by The Chakachas, playing that while Christian Slater takes polaroids by the pool, is too much like “Boogie Nights.”
I can’t wait to see what Kravitz does next behind the camera. This was a solid debut.
I thought the third act was a bit of a mess, but the ending was strong (although it’s been done before).
Nobody will be bored watching this.
3 stars out of 5.