Rating of
3/4
Refn's Bizarre Fetishes Realized
Unknown - wrote on 07/04/16
'The Neon Demon' is the latest hyper-stylized offering from director Refn. Even when I don't like one of Refn's films, I still find something to admire in his superb visual presentation. Luckily, this is one of his best to date. 'The Neon Demon' has the slow plotless-ness of 'Only God Forgives' combined with the structure and investing characters of 'Drive'. The mesh of the two creates a constantly fascinating weird trip that gradually gives way to more bizarre happenings - culminating in an absolute crazy finale that holds brute literal meaning. The movie's message and themes are front and center. There's no need for confusing dissection after viewing. It's all laid out in purposefully brash fashion. I was drawn in through the dream-like quality of the visuals and music. Every frame is strikingly beautiful! The cinematography alone is award worthy. Such great use of neon lighting and many vibrant colors as a stark contrast to pure darkness. I got a Stanley Kubrick vibe from the whole experience. It's something likened to '2001', but with less vague heady themes and more dialogue. Oh, and a TON of sexually charged violent imagery. If that's a meld that sounds interesting to you, then definitely give this a watch.
