Is ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ a Must-Watch for Thriller Fans?
‘Love Lies Bleeding’, directed by Rose Glass, is a film that combines key elements of a thriller, garnering attention from fans of the genre. The narrative revolves around Lou (Kristen Stewart), a gym manager who becomes enamored with Jackie (Katy O’Brian), a bodybuilder aiming to compete in a Las Vegas competition. However, their burgeoning romance encounters a sudden obstacle when a murder disrupts their love affair, leading to chaotic and criminal shenanigans as the couple navigates their complicated relationship.
The film is visually stunning, with its beginning revealing captivating shots filled with eerie imagery—empty roads illuminated by lone headlights, shootouts against a sunset backdrop, and intimate flashbacks that focus closely on the characters. Cinematographer Ben Fordesman brings a touch of whimsy and drama, using light and composition to immerse the audience into this strange and uncanny world, particularly showcasing the breathtaking views of New Mexico alongside crackling neon lights that illuminate the lovers.
Moreover, ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ can be interpreted in various ways—some may see it as a campy comedic thriller, while others regard it as a drama slasher with a hint of cheesy writing. From the beginning, the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, questioning the unpredictable actions of its deeply flawed characters.
As we explore Lou and Jackie’s passionate yet tumultuous love, we find that their relationship ignites violence, drawing them deeper into Lou’s hazardous criminal family dynamics. Though ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ contains flaws, it boasts bold direction, phenomenal performances, and an insightful exploration of complex themes, making it a worthwhile watch—especially for those inclined towards unconventional thrillers. Just be prepared for the wild ride it promises.
Overall, the film can be described as romantically gory and visually unique. While its shock factor might alienate some viewers, it is indeed strongly recommended for those who appreciate a distinctive blend of crime and romance filled with bloodshed and unabashed violence.
What Themes Does ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ Explore?
Here are the themes explored in the film Love Lies Bleeding:
- It effectively explores the meaning of strength.
- The dangers of addiction are prominently featured.
- It addresses the line between obsession and love.
- Desire and obsession are central themes, highlighting the lengths people will go to for love, or at least a very damaged version of it.
- The film careens between themes of power, violence, body image, and trauma.
Additionally, another crucial element is the portrayal of the queer experience. The film allows characters to exist as queer individuals without focusing on common narratives such as coming out or dealing with homophobia.
This refreshing approach contrasts with many other LGBTQ media, which typically emphasize struggles with identity and societal challenges.
Overall, Love Lies Bleeding presents a powerful story that touches on significant themes while maintaining an authentic depiction of its characters and their relationships.
Who Are the Key Characters in ‘Love Lies Bleeding’?
Key Characters in ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ (2024 movie):
- Kristen Stewart as Louise “Lou” Langston, a reclusive gym manager.
- Katy O’Brian as Jacqueline “Jackie” Cleaver, a rising bodybuilder.
- Jena Malone as Beth Langston, Lou’s sister, a woman trapped in an abusive marriage.
- Anna Baryshnikov as Daisy, a woman obsessed with Lou.
- Dave Franco as JJ, Beth’s husband.
- Ed Harris as Lou Langston Sr., Lou’s estranged father.
Lou has a strong bond with her sister Beth and will do anything to protect her. However, this protectiveness escalates once Jackie is pulled into the fold.
How Does ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ Compare to Other 2024 Releases?
‘Love Lies Bleeding’ is one of A24’s new 2024 movies, which also includes Civil War, Problemista, Tuesday, and Sing Sing, among others. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 20, 2024, and was released theatrically in the United States by A24 on March 8, 2024, followed by a UK release by Lionsgate UK on May 3, 2024.
Critical Reception
The film is ‘Certified Fresh’ on Rotten Tomatoes with a score of 94%. Beyond the 80s hairdos, short shorts, and techno soundtrack, it presents a dark, violent, and intriguing story. The film falls into more of the indie sector, although it could have widespread appeal, especially with the backing of A24.
Film Characteristics
‘Love Lies Bleeding’ is a muscular and psychologically probing feminist thriller with a 1980s aesthetic. Directed by Rose Glass, known for the critically acclaimed Saint Maude (2019), the story revolves around a love that ignites violence, involving a reclusive gym manager and an ambitious bodybuilder.
What Sets ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ Apart in the Horror Genre?
Love Lies Bleeding has a fresh-faced style paired with a wild, synth-dominant soundtrack. This combination keeps your heart beating to the jacked-up pulse of the film. The energy is supercharged with steroids, passion, guns, and the bitter aftertaste of a love-gone-sour dynamic, reminiscent at times of a Japanese manga. The storyline centres on revenge, dramatically redefined when Lou (Kristen Stewart) meets Jackie (Katy O’Brian). Together, they transform into a lesbian Bonnie & Clyde or a Thelma & Louise.
Furthermore, it’s important not to take this film too literally; it’s imaginative cinema that strays far from the usual — making it refreshing and unique. It’s regarded as one of A24’s weird little gems, a dark piece that audiences will either love or hate. Watching it is a risk worth taking, but it’s not for the faint-hearted!
Kristen Stewart delivers a phenomenal performance in the lead role, proving why she is consistently chosen for indie films. With her classic sweet-but-awkward style, made famous during her Twilight days, Stewart’s quirkiness and small-town punk rock attitude enhance the film’s wild and refreshing style.
Additionally, Rose Glass’s Love Lies Bleeding is a gleefully deranged, exceptionally crafted, pitch-dark pulp-drama. This genre-bender—a Tarantino-esque concoction of crime, noir, romance, body horror, western, black comedy, and mood—marks Glass as a must-watch talent.
In more ways than one, Love Lies Bleeding is committed to its own queerness. It presents a universal, highly marketable story, focusing on a lesbian romance without self-indulgently celebrating wokeness. Instead, it falls into categories traditionally dominated by machismo and, in many ways, one-ups them.
Directed by Rose Glass, the director of the critically acclaimed Saint Maud (2019), Love Lies Bleeding is a muscular and psychologically probing feminist thriller with a 1980s look, contributing a unique style to the horror genre.
Lastly, Clint Mansell’s pulsating score transports us into the 1980s genre-bending, kaleidoscopic world of Love Lies Bleeding. The film asks you to suspend your disbelief, making it an engaging experience that sets it apart from traditional horror films.
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