Think twice before letting a tech billionaire whisk you away to a private island, even if you’re just out for a good time. This is the premise of Blink Twice, the directorial debut of acclaimed actress Zoë Kravitz, who co-wrote the film with E.T. Feigenbaum.
While the narrative may feel familiar, Kravitz injects it with flashy visuals and a trippy atmosphere, creating a thriller that’s as intriguing as it is uneven.
With a cast brimming with talent, Blink Twice showcases Kravitz’s potential behind the camera. Although Kravitz herself doesn’t appear on screen, her real-life fiancé, Channing Tatum, takes center stage as Slater, a tech mogul with a dark side.
Christian Slater joins the cast as Slater’s wealthy friend, adding a layer of eerie luxury to this high-stakes getaway.
Tatum’s portrayal of the enigmatic Slater is sure to draw audiences, even as the film’s plot veers off course in its wild second and third acts. Despite its flaws, Kravitz’s stylish direction ensures Blink Twice will spark conversation.
Channing Tatum’s Dark Vacation in Blink Twice
Naomi Ackie stars as Frida, a caterer who quickly finds herself in over her head after catching Slater’s eye at a lavish gala. Encouraged by her friend Jess (Alia Shawkat), Frida embarks on a spontaneous trip to Slater’s private island. However, what starts as a glamorous vacation soon takes a dark turn, with tension and power struggles bubbling beneath the surface.
The film’s supporting cast shines, with Kyle MacLachlan, Simon Rex, Haley Joel Osment, and Geena Davis playing Slater’s eccentric entourage. As the story progresses, the line between indulgence and danger blurs, especially for Frida, who becomes increasingly drawn to Slater despite his ominous past.
A Satirical Take on Wealth and Power
Blink Twice cleverly uses satire to comment on the excesses of the super-rich, with the island’s staff and guests growing stranger by the day. The film’s bleak humor and darkly comedic moments add depth, even as the narrative sometimes struggles to maintain coherence.
Symbolism abounds, from a seemingly innocuous cigarette lighter to the heart-shaped sunglasses worn by Slater’s party-hard friend Tom (Osment). These elements help build the film’s themes of forgiveness, power, and the lengths people will go to escape their pasts.
An Ambitious, If Flawed, Thriller
Despite its intriguing setup, the second half of Blink Twice falters as the plot’s logic becomes increasingly inconsistent. This inconsistency may remind viewers of the hit film A Quiet Place, where the rules of the story’s world occasionally stretch credibility.
However, the film’s high-energy performances, especially from Tatum, Ackie, Shawkat, and Arjona, keep the audience engaged.
Watch Blink Twice (2024) Behind the Scenes
Zoë Kravitz’s debut as a director is a visually lush and entertaining ride, even if the story doesn’t always hold together. Blink Twice offers a mix of thrills, satire, and style that makes it a noteworthy addition to the genre.
