Deliberately obvious, gleefully trashy, this deranged feminist fable from French filmmaker Coralie Fargeat (Revenge) is flawed. But as befits a slash-and-burn critique of impossible female beauty standards, it really works. Her latest film, an over-the-top, hyper-stylized take on societal expectations, defies convention, leaving its audience questioning the real meaning behind the concept of beauty.
At its core, the movie is a bold, visual statement, flaunting its own artifice. That's what makes it work - beneath its over-the-top performances and graphic violence, it holds a thought-provoking commentary about the world we live in, where the value of women is determined by their physical appearance.
As much as it has sparked controversy, it also sparks discussions. Fargeat's narrative pushes the boundaries of the genre, imbuing its audience with a mix of complicated emotions: bewilderment, discomfort, excitement, and unease. That's precisely the reaction it aims to provoke, challenging our perception of the notion of beauty, perfection, and femininity.
Undeniably entertaining, it boasts vibrant visuals, jarring cinematic sequences, and outrageous fashion statements that scream of rebellion against stagnant beauty norms. Packed with catchy scene-stealers, the picture promises to be an invigorating, in-your-face, adrenaline-fueled spectacle not easily forgotten.