PIERCING (2018)

Written & Directed By: Nicolas Pesce 
Story By: Ryu Murakami 
Cinematography: Zack Galler 
Editor: Sofia Subercaseaux 

Cast: Christopher Abbott, Mia Wasikowska, Laia Costa, Marin Ireland, Maria Dizzia, Wendell Pierce 

 A man kisses his wife and baby goodbye and seemingly heads away on business, with a plan to check into a hotel, call an escort service, and kill an unsuspecting prostitute.

Everything seems immaculately designed throughout the film. As it stays mannered and minimal. With a modern set design.

Though through it all it feels more like a show or a performance that Both of the characters are putting on for a kind of happiness or moment of it. Which makes the whole film feel more maintained rather then considered.

The main character played by Christopher Abbott is calculated though nothing goes according to his plan. Even though everyone he speaks to or meats seems like they are in on his plan.

Mia Wasikowska performance is so wild and out there. As she goes from meek to being in control. So that you are never quite sure about the next action or emotion. She is literally the opposite Of the main character.

As the movie goes along. We slowly get to know more of his psyche then hers. As she seems suicidal at first but will only allow harm or death to come from herself. Though she strangely seems to get him and have a sympathy for him when she turns the tables. As they both seems to have a weakness for one another.

The film ends up feeling more unsettling more than surprising even with it’s Darkly comedic attitude

The soundtrack is full of themes for Giallo films. Which this film tries to be itself while setting a similar mood.

As the artificial design of the town they are in the production design and matte models showcases a neat and artificial surrounding showcase. As the two characters off the wall craziness and neuroses are so crazy as a result maybe because of this. As each is messy and they are trying to stay as clean and slick as the designs around them.

Even though He is partly encouraged by his wife showing that he always needs encouragement or help. As we sometimes see the ghosts of his past. Which are clues though they offer a window into his origins they also feel like much ado about nothing. As nothing really grabs you.

Knowing how wild the film aspires to be. Yet stays mannered and clam to a degree with the craziness manifesting while building underneath. The film comes across as a study in style that in theory is very pleasing. But by the end doesn’t feel entertaining or entrancing definitely not worth it. As It’s a slow burn that destroys itself never truly prepared to enjoy. Ultimately an experiment where the results are somewhat disappointing.

Though one believes this would do well as a theatrical piece. A two character one, which is close to how it plays out on screen.

In the end stylistically the film stays inventive, but unless you are into it from the beginning. You may find yourself wandering and nothing quite grabbing you or at least anything of substance.

Grade: D+