Zoë Kravitz’s directorial debut, Blink Twice, may draw comparisons to Jordan Peele’s Get Out, but it quickly carves out its own unsettling niche. The film lures viewers in with a familiar setup—a secluded getaway that spirals into eerie territory—but what begins as a stylish social thriller soon morphs into something far more sinister and unpredictable.
The story centers on Frida (Naomi Ackie), a cocktail server who catches the eye of disgraced tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) at a lavish gala. Slater, now reformed and seemingly charming, invites Frida and her friend Jess (Alia Shawkat) to his private island. What starts as a luxurious escape quickly takes a dark turn. Frida’s memory of each night fades into oblivion, dirt mysteriously appears under her fingernails, and, most disturbingly, Jess vanishes without a trace, with no one recalling her presence.
Kravitz skillfully builds tension through sharp cinematography and sound design, crafting an atmosphere that’s both captivating and unnerving. The film’s true strength lies in its ability to keep audiences guessing, as it cleverly critiques power dynamics and the toxic allure of wealth, all while delivering a thrilling narrative.
As the plot unfolds, Frida’s alliance with Sarah (Adria Arjona) adds a surprising layer, challenging the competitive nature ingrained in women navigating elite circles. Blink Twice ultimately becomes a dark revenge fantasy, offering a punchy, if slightly hollow, conclusion that leaves viewers both thrilled and contemplative.
Blink Twice hits theaters on August 23.
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