tekgirl4 
Blink Twice: A Misfire in Style Over Substance
Zoë Kravitz’s first foray into directing, “Blink Twice,” is a visually striking but ultimately disappointing thriller. Despite its promising premise and star-studded cast, the film fails to deliver a coherent and engaging narrative.
Plot and Characters
The story centers around tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) and cocktail waitress Frida (Naomi Ackie), who are drawn into a web of deceit and danger on a private island. While the setup promises intrigue, the characters are underdeveloped and their motivations often feel contrived. The film’s attempt to critique the sinister capabilities of the wealthy falls flat, as it merely scratches the surface without offering any meaningful insights1.
Direction and Style
Kravitz’s direction is heavy on style but light on substance. The film’s aesthetic is undeniably sleek, with beautiful cinematography and a moody atmosphere. However, these visual elements cannot compensate for the lack of a compelling story. The pacing is uneven, with long stretches of dull exposition punctuated by sudden bursts of action that feel more jarring than thrilling1.
Writing and Themes
The screenplay, co-written by Kravitz, is riddled with clichés and predictable twists. The dialogue often feels forced, and the film’s attempts at humor fall flat. The themes of power and exploitation are handled clumsily, with the film resorting to shock value rather than thoughtful exploration. The result is a narrative that feels both superficial and sensationalist1.
Performances
Despite the film’s flaws, the cast delivers commendable performances. Channing Tatum and Naomi Ackie do their best with the material they are given, but their efforts are undermined by the weak script. Supporting actors like Christian Slater and Simon Rex add some much-needed energy, but they too are hampered by the film’s overall lack of direction1.
Conclusion
“Blink Twice” is a disappointing debut for Zoë Kravitz. While it showcases her potential as a visual stylist, it also highlights the importance of a strong script and coherent storytelling. The film’s stylish veneer cannot hide its fundamental flaws, making it a frustrating watch for audiences expecting more from this promising new director.
My Grade C
