The Unsettling Transformation of ‘Blink Twice’: A Deep Dive into Zoë Kravitz’s Controversial Thriller

‘Blink Twice,’ the directorial debut of Zoë Kravitz, has generated significant buzz and polarized audiences since its release. The film begins as a seemingly light-hearted mystery/social thriller with undertones reminiscent of Jordan Peele’s ‘Get Out’ and Rian Johnson’s ‘Glass Onion.’ The narrative follows Frida, a cash-strapped cater-waiter who is invited to a private island owned by tech billionaire Slater King. As the story unfolds, the initial playful tone is gradually overshadowed by a dark and unsettling twist, leading to a cascade of reactions from viewers and critics alike.

The first hour of ‘Blink Twice’ is an exercise in visual and sensory delight. The film’s setting—a lush, tropical island—serves as a backdrop for opulent parties, luxurious activities, and picturesque landscapes. Frida, portrayed by Naomi Ackie, navigates this world with a mix of awe and skepticism, accompanied by her friend Jess. The vibrant colors, rich sounds, and meticulous attention to detail create an immersive experience that draws viewers into the seemingly idyllic life on the island. However, subtle hints and suspicious events suggest that not everything is as it appears, setting the stage for the film’s dramatic shift in tone.

The turning point of ‘Blink Twice’ is marked by a twist that drastically alters the film’s trajectory. The revelation that the women on the island are being drugged and raped by the men—wealthy guests who come to the island specifically for this sadistic purpose—casts a dark shadow over the earlier light-hearted scenes. This twist is both shocking and disturbing, transforming the film from a playful mystery into a harrowing commentary on abuse and power dynamics. Despite the film’s trigger warning for mature themes and violence, many viewers found the explicit portrayal of sexual violence to be deeply unsettling and difficult to watch.

Critics have drawn comparisons between ‘Blink Twice’ and other films that tackle similar themes, such as ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ and ‘Promising Young Woman.’ Like these films, ‘Blink Twice’ delves into the manipulation and gaslighting of women, using shock value to provoke thought and discussion. However, the graphic nature of the rape scenes in ‘Blink Twice’ has sparked debate about the director’s choices. Some argue that the prolonged and excruciating depiction of these scenes is a failure on Kravitz’s part, suggesting that a more nuanced approach—such as fragmented editing to imply the dark secret—could have been more effective and less traumatic for viewers.

The inclusion of the song ‘Bully Maguire’ during one of the rape scenes has also been a point of contention. While some see it as a bold and risky choice that adds to the film’s commentary on the absurdity of societal expectations, others view it as inappropriate and jarring. This decision, along with the overall graphic portrayal of sexual violence, has led to questions about the balance between horror and humor in the film. Unlike Jordan Peele’s work, which skillfully blends these elements, ‘Blink Twice’ struggles to maintain this equilibrium, resulting in a film that can be difficult to rewatch once the initial shock has worn off.

Despite the controversy, ‘Blink Twice’ has been praised for its social commentary on the abuse of power and the pervasiveness of mistreatment of women. Kravitz has stated that the film is not a direct comparison to high-profile cases of sexual misconduct but rather an exploration of the broader issue of power dynamics. The casting of Channing Tatum as Slater King—a charming and seemingly safe figure—highlights the deceptive nature of those who abuse their power. Naomi Ackie’s portrayal of Frida, with her range of emotions and gradual realization of the island’s dark secrets, adds depth to the film’s narrative.

The film’s ending leaves viewers with a tainted impression, as the shocking twist overshadows the rest of the movie. While the revenge aspect of the story may provide some satisfaction, it ultimately feels underwhelming and anti-climactic. The film’s attempt to comment on patriarchy and female empowerment is commendable, but the execution falls short of offering new insights or impactful storytelling. Critics have pointed out that the film follows a familiar formula seen in other #MeToo thrillers, raising questions about when the genre will evolve to offer more specific and curious narratives.

Kravitz’s journey to bring ‘Blink Twice’ to the screen was a long and challenging one. Initially conceived as a novella, the project took nearly five years to complete, with Kravitz deciding to direct the film once financing was secured. The timing of the film’s release is particularly relevant, given the ongoing societal discussions about the mistreatment of women and the abuse of power. Kravitz hopes that ‘Blink Twice’ will spark conversations and bring attention to these critical issues, emphasizing that the problem extends beyond a few high-profile cases and can occur in any context where power dynamics are at play.

While ‘Blink Twice’ has its flaws, it is undeniably a timely and important film that addresses significant societal issues. The film’s exploration of the absurdity and oppression women face in trying to exist in the world resonates with many viewers, even if the execution is not perfect. Kravitz’s willingness to take risks and tackle difficult subjects is commendable, and her debut film has certainly made an impact, sparking debate and discussion about the portrayal of sexual violence and the dynamics of power in society.

In conclusion, ‘Blink Twice’ is a complex and controversial film that has divided audiences and critics alike. Its initial playful tone and beautiful visuals are starkly contrasted by the dark and disturbing twist, creating a jarring and unsettling viewing experience. While the film’s social commentary on the abuse of power and the mistreatment of women is timely and relevant, the graphic portrayal of sexual violence has sparked debate about the director’s choices and the effectiveness of the film’s message. Despite its flaws, ‘Blink Twice’ is a thought-provoking film that raises important questions and contributes to ongoing societal discussions about power dynamics and the treatment of women.

As viewers continue to grapple with the film’s unsettling content and controversial choices, ‘Blink Twice’ remains a significant entry in the #MeToo thriller genre. It challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about power and abuse, even as it struggles to balance horror and humor. Zoë Kravitz’s directorial debut may not be perfect, but it is a bold and ambitious film that has left a lasting impression on those who have watched it. Whether you find it provocative or problematic, ‘Blink Twice’ is a film that demands attention and invites conversation, making it a noteworthy addition to the landscape of contemporary cinema.