Movie Review: “Opus” – A Flawed Attempt at a Psychological Thriller
Rating: ★★½
Even Ayo Edebiri’s magnetic presence in “Opus” can’t lift this film from the depths of mediocrity. Set against the backdrop of a quiet afternoon in Virginia Beach, I found myself watching this A24 psychological thriller in an empty theater, save for my brother and me. Given the promise of an intriguing plot, it was puzzling to see just how quickly the film fell flat.
A Disappointing Premise
“Opus” revolves around the enigmatic return of Alfred Moretti, a beloved 90s pop icon making a comeback after 30 years. To celebrate his first album launch, he invites six guests—including Ariel, a budding journalist portrayed by Edebiri, and her overbearing boss—to a secluded island for an exclusive listening party. Once they arrive, they find themselves surrounded by a peculiar cult dressed in matching blue attire. As unsettling events unfold, Ariel suspects that something sinister is looming.
A Confusing Opening
The film kicks off with a mesmerizing montage of people dancing in a dark abyss, promising the exploration of celebrity and fandom, but quickly peters out. By the time the guests reach the island, the atmosphere changes from eerie anticipation to confused disinterest—my brother resorted to watching a March Madness game on his phone just 30 minutes in.
A Missed Opportunity
“Opus” ultimately falls short of its grand ambitions. It aims to deliver a fresh perspective on the cult of celebrity, yet fails to articulate any profound insights. As Moretti outlines his cult’s motivations, you quickly realize the narrative is nothing more than a jumbled collection of ideas. The film yearns to resonate but ends up feeling like an echo of better titles.
If you’ve seen “Knives Out: Glass Onion,” mixed it with “Midsommar,” and sprinkled in elements of “The Menu,” you’d likely sense the derivative nature of this film. Despite its runtime, “Opus” lacks coherence, leading to moments where suspense seems artificially constructed rather than organically developed. Viewers are told to feel tension, yet the portrayed events rarely justify the emotional reactions attempted by the characters.
Style Over Substance
While the plot falters, it’s important to highlight that “Opus” excels in style. The film seamlessly blends a nostalgic 90s aesthetic with contemporary themes, showcasing the return of a pop icon in a modern light. Each frame feels meticulously crafted, making it a visual feast for cinephiles. The juxtaposition of serene melodies against chaotic action sequences adds an unexpected layer to the narrative, and both John Malkovich and Edebiri deliver commendable performances amidst the chaos.
Yet, despite its artistic flair, the essence of horror and suspense largely evaporates in the frantic last 30 minutes. The film rushes through gut-wrenching moments, betraying the careful pacing that the beginning promised. It feels as though the film has lost all sense of direction, sprinting hastily towards a conclusion that resolves little.
Final Verdict: What to Watch Instead
Unless you’re a fervent fan of horror with an appreciation for celebrity satire, “Opus” might leave you wanting more. The film’s ambitious idea is clouded by a lack of clarity and substance. For those curious, watch the trailer; it might offer more excitement than the actual film itself. Ultimately, “Opus” serves as a visual showcase, but it’s a narrative letdown that skirts around its own potential.
In a landscape rich with psychological thrillers and commentaries on celebrity culture, “Opus” fades into the background—remembered not as a triumph, but rather as a missed opportunity.
