Blink Twice

Written & directed by: Zoë Kravitz

Written by: E.T. Feigenbaum

Frida (Naomi Ackie) and her flat mate Jess (Alia Shawkat) are working as waitresses at a charity event, hosted by Spencer King(Channing Tatum), a disgraced former CEO. When the women slip there way into the party, they find their way into Spencer’s group. The group includes his therapist, Rich (Kyle MacLachlan), who’s helping him deal with his mistakes, a selection of attractive women, including Sarah (Adria Arjona), and a group of Spencer’s friends and associates. As the night ends, the women are invited with the group to Spencer’s island. It’s idyllic and beautiful, food and champagne on tap. But Jess’s unease grows and she feels something is not right. When Frida discovers the reality of what is happening, it turns from idyllic Island into a fight for survival.

I enjoyed this tense, intriguing, thriller. It’s a strong directorial debut from Zoë Kravitzbthat feels very Jordan Peele in a good way. The plot is intriguing, keeping you guessing and ratcheting up the unease from the first minute. The reveal is slow and concealed well enough that the reality of what is happening is surprising and disturbing.

The film is nicely layered as it asks questions about abuse, abuse of power, control and forgiveness. As well as what  people are prepared to forgive for the right reward.

There’s solid performances throughout, Tatum believable in a more sinister role. Naomi Ackie is excellent and well supported by Alia Shawkat and Adria Arjonaz.  There’s also nice performances from Geena Davis, Christian Slater. Haley Joel Osment and Simon Rex.

The story, at 102 minutes, zips along and has a nice Jordan Peele, David Lynch, disturbing reality under the shiny surface feel. It also injects some laugh out loud moments along the way.

Blink Twice is a strong directorial debut from Zoë Kravitz. A smart, intriguing and layered thriller. It builds a sense of unease from the start helped by a good set of subtle performances. And its reveal of its dark secret is well done. An entertaining thriller, don’t blink and miss it.