Blink Twice Movie Review: This psychological thriller is full of memorable highs

Zoe Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, masterfully employs colour theory to create a visually striking and psychologically intriguing narrative. The film's pervasive use of white, a symbol of purity, perfection, and cleanliness, sets a stark contrast to the underlying darkness of the story. When billionaire tech mogul Slater King (Channing Tatum) emerges from exile to host a lavish gala, the all-white stage immediately signals a facade of innocence. This theme is further emphasized when Frida (Naomi Ackie) and other women are given flowing white dresses to wear throughout their stay on King's private island. The stark beauty of the colour white, while initially reassuring, becomes increasingly unsettling as the plot unfolds, suggesting a deceptive undercurrent to the idyllic setting. Kravitz's skilful use of colour, combined with vivid cinematography, a haunting plot twist, and exceptional performances, delivers a memorable cinematic experience, albeit with minor imperfections.

Director: Zoe Kravitz
Cast: Naomi Ackie, Channing Tatum, Adria Arjona, Alia Shawkat, Christian Slater, Simon Rex

Blink Twice sees Frida, her friend Jess (Alia Shawkat), Sarah (Adria Arjona) and others being invited for a vacation to Slater King’s private island. With endless access to alcohol, exotic dishes, a custom fragrance perfume, spa time, and fresh white clothes for every day, the island seems like heaven. Except… it is obviously not. The fact that the island is hell, is almost an open secret. Jess even echoes our thoughts with the dialogue, “So do you think the human sacrifice is before or after the dinner?” However, Kravitz really manages to make us keep our eyes open in shock with the twist, which is cruel, sadistic, selfish, and horrifying. 

The one major disappointment is the pacing. Initially, things are rushed. In one scene we see Frida as a nobody, a common cocktail waitress who is amazed by King and his charisma. In the next, she is invited by King to his private island for a party. While this rush is eventually justified, it does spell imbalance, because after this the film takes a long time to build the world of the private island and how much of a luxurious paradise it is. When the truth about the island is finally revealed, the characters get little time for vengeance. There is also only so much time to establish the why’s and how’s of the villain’s motives and so, the overall experience is affected.

Blink Twice delves into the complexities of female friendship and sisterhood, showing how women can bond over shared adversity. Arjona's Sarah and Ackie's Frida, initially rivals, forge an unexpected alliance when faced with the island's dark secret. Their energy coupled with Tatum’s charisma and effortless portrayal of a character that is best described as, “looks like a cinnamon roll but could kill you,” make up the unforgettable portions of the film. Blink Twice also explores the theme of memory and its impact on our actions. Through Frida, we witness how buried memories can unconsciously shape our choices and lead us down familiar, often destructive paths. This exploration adds a thought-provoking layer to the film's narrative.

Blink Twice is a visually stunning and psychologically gripping thriller that expertly uses colour to deceive and reveal. It's a tale of forgotten horrors and remembered strength, proving that even in the darkest places, women can find their light and shatter the illusions of a seemingly perfect paradise. As for how the film leaves you feeling, it's always a resounding "Yes" when Tatum's King asks, "Are you having a good time?" So, the next time you're offered a free vacation, remember: don't forget to blink twice.