Introduction: A Stormy Night of Mayhem
In the world of Bodies Bodies Bodies, the stormy night sets the perfect atmosphere for a twisted game of murder-in-the-dark among a group of uber-wealthy friends. Directed by Halina Reijn, this smart and audaciously insufferable slasher-comedy satire takes an unapologetically dark dive into the lives of a clique where everyone is annoying, and no one makes good decisions. The film’s daring choice to feature Azealia Banks’ hit song ‘212’ as a needle drop sets the tone for the subsequent madness that unfolds.
A Delightful Array of Awful Characters
The story begins as recently sober Sophie (Amandla Stenberg) brings her new girlfriend Bee (Maria Bakalova) to a party at her best friend David’s (Pete Davidson) mansion. As the ensemble cast gathers, including David’s girlfriend Emma (Chase Sui Wonders), their headstrong friend Jordan (Myha’la Herrold), unbearable podcaster Alice (Rachel Sennott), and older vet Greg (Lee Pace), the night quickly turns tense and uncomfortable. Old friends discover they no longer like each other, and a night of petty grievances rapidly escalates into a night of shocking violence and unexpected death.
A Familiar yet Fresh Take on Modern Culture
The film masterfully infuses modern-day internet culture into the genre, making it both fresh and uncomfortably familiar. Reijn brilliantly subverts social media buzzwords and real-life issues, exposing the tendency to amplify them to the point of absurdity. Gaslighting, triggering, safe spaces, and astrology-as-religion all become twisted ammunition for the characters’ petty conflicts. In a way, the film satirizes the culture of defining one’s identity through social media platforms, making audiences reflect on their own online presence.
The Art of Hate-Watching
Throughout the film, there are equal opportunities to laugh at the terrible rich kids as there are moments of true horror. Rachel Sennott, known for her role in Shiva Baby, delivers a standout performance as the grating and desperate narcissist, Alice. The entire ensemble portrays their detestable and incompetent characters to perfection, striking a delicate balance that keeps audiences engaged. The extreme characterizations might not resonate with everyone, but they undeniably make the film intriguing.
A Stylish and Suspenseful Affair
Body Bodies Bodies boasts a clever and skillful direction from Halina Reijn. She expertly deploys violence with slick, stylistic flourishes, heightening the tension of the night with glow-sticks and phone torches. The film’s soundtrack, crafted by video-game composer Disasterpeace, seamlessly blends dirty pop with twinkling melodies, adding a constant sense of discomfort to the eerie atmosphere.
Conclusion: The Horrors of Cancel Culture and Murder
In Bodies Bodies Bodies, Reijn crafts a darkly humorous yet chilling narrative, showcasing the horrors of cancel culture and murder intertwined with modern-day social media madness. While spending time with such wretched characters might seem overwhelming, the film’s clever execution and suspenseful moments keep viewers hooked until the very end. Tense, fun, and unapologetically brutal, Bodies Bodies Bodies is a satirical ride that offers an unforgettable twist on the slasher genre, making it an intriguing addition to the world of horror cinema.
