‘Blink Twice’ if You Can Look Away

Content warning: discussion of trauma, sexual violence and drug-faciliated bodily harm.

“Blink Twice” is the emancipating thriller “Don’t Worry Darling” wished it was.

Co-written and directed by Zoë Kravitz, “Blink Twice” follows friends Frida and Jess as they’re whisked away to a debaucherous island. Working as waitresses for a private gala, the two capture the attention of impulsive billionaire, Slater King

When King invites the duo to his private retreat on a whim, the blue-collar friends vacation with high society’s biggest partiers. As the nights roll on, Frida and Jess notice gaps in their memory and discover something sinister brewing beneath the fanfare.

Primarily known as an actor, Kravitz (“The Batman,” “Big Little Lies”) makes a spectacular directorial debut. Intense close ups highlight the ecstasy and despair felt by the ensemble cast. Tracking shots likewise contrast the setting’s vibrant villa to the story’s unnerving undertones.

Kravitz similarly excels with the film’s writing. The film’s gradual opening act is followed by a fantastic second and third, as the unraveling mystery creatively ties together each red herring and lingering question.

The plot of “Blink Twice” is intriguing, but the film’s contents are disturbing. Men in power abusing women is the film’s defining theme, and Kravitz directs sexual violence with evident consideration. Despicable violations are implied more than shown, appearing non explicit but unsettlingly authentic.

Kravitz directs just enough to sicken the audience without being superfluous. Offscreen screams and haunting expressions provide plenty of fodder to make stomachs turn. However, “Blink Twice” doesn’t relish in its tragedy.

Naomi Ackie is a force of power as Frida. Ackie (“I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” “Lady Macbeth”) gives abundant strength to the entrapped partygirl disentangling the island’s mysteries.

When Frida grasps the reality of her circumstance, she unifies the island’s victims to covertly plot against King. She’s a multilayered victim, expressing distress, rage and vindication in regaining control of her bodily autonomy.

As the film’s despicable heel, Slater King, Channing Tatum revels in his villany. Tatum (“Foxcatcher,” “Logan Lucky”) plays the boyish billionaire at first as well intentioned. With each inconsistency on the island, King’s veil of care withers with intimidation.

King depicts himself as a changed man in the public eye after facing harassment charges. Yet in the deepest corners of his private retreat, he reveals his true disregard for introspection.

Standout performances are given in spades by the ensemble cast of partygoers. Despite the serious subject matter, “Blink Twice” is a surprisingly funny film with the interplay of its characters. 

Alia Shawkat as Jess provides laughs aplenty. Shawkat (“Arrested Development,” “Search Party”) touts her comedic chops to lewdly announce their vacation’s absurdity. Shawkwat — like the rest — provides a two-sided performance with an eerie state of distress that contrasts with the character’s typical sarcastic state.

Other highlights include Adria Arjona as reality TV star Sarah, compelling with a brazen and unforgiving presence. Haley Joel Osment as washed up child actor Tom delights with his self-depreciation as a fresh divorcee. Ominous and odd financier Vic is given a ghoulish presence by the adept Christian Slater.

“Blink Twice” is rife with witty dialogue and comical banter. The lighthearted interplay is juxtaposed by a chilling story regarding chauvinistic abuse and feminine retaliation.

The film touches on self-esteem, class authority and retribution through a thrilling narrative that amuses as often as it alarms. In captivating the audience, “Blink Twice” is an unflinching debut twofold.

“Blink Twice,” rated R, comes to theaters Aug. 23.

Featured image courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios.