A Completely Biased Review of The Neon Demon

The Neon Demon, directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, is a movie that has sparked a lot of conversations. It's a film that some people love and others really don't like. With its flashy visuals and deep themes, it tries to show the dark side of the fashion world. In this review, I'll share my thoughts on the movie, from its look and feel to the acting and story.

Key Takeaways

• The Neon Demon is visually stunning, but its story might feel too familiar.
• Elle Fanning's performance as Jesse is a highlight of the film.
• The movie explores themes like the obsession with beauty and the dark side of Hollywood.
• Some viewers might find the pacing slow, while others appreciate the build-up of tension.
• The film received mixed reactions, with some praising its style and others criticizing its substance.

Visual Aesthetics and Cinematography

Refn's Signature Style

Nicolas Winding Refn's approach to filmmaking is unmistakable. His use of bold and saturated colors, combined with meticulous framing, creates a visual experience that is both beautiful and challenging. The cinematography, handled by Darius Khondji and Diego García, is a testament to Refn's commitment to visual storytelling. Every frame is crafted with precision, making the visuals as important as the narrative itself.

Symbolism in Color and Light

In "The Neon Demon," color and light are not just aesthetic choices but are used to convey deeper meanings. The vibrant reds, purples, and blues saturating the screen are symbolic, often reflecting the inner states of the characters. Light and shadow play crucial roles, with over-exposed scenes contrasting sharply with darker, more saturated moments. This use of color and light adds layers of meaning to the film, making it a rich visual tapestry.

Impact on Audience Perception

The film's visual style significantly impacts how the audience perceives the story and characters. The bold use of color and light can evoke strong emotional responses, drawing viewers deeper into the narrative. For those who appreciate visual artistry, Refn's style offers a feast for the eyes. However, it may not appeal to those who prefer more traditional storytelling methods. The aesthetic choices in "The Neon Demon" challenge viewers to see beyond the surface, engaging them in a more profound cinematic experience.

Performances and Character Analysis

Elle Fanning as Jesse

Elle Fanning's portrayal of Jesse is a masterclass in subtlety. Her character starts as a naive, almost expressionless young woman, embodying the deer in the headlights look that the film demands. As the story progresses, her non-emotive expressions shift, reflecting her changing status and inner transformation. Fanning's commitment to this nuanced performance results in some of the film's most impactful scenes.

Supporting Cast Contributions

The supporting cast, including Bella Heathcote, delivers excellent performances that add depth to the narrative. Heathcote, in particular, surprises with her compelling portrayal, owning her character's complexities. The stoic and borderline mute traits of the characters, a hallmark of Refn's style, are executed flawlessly by the entire cast, allowing each actor moments to shine.

Character Arcs and Development

The character arcs in 'The Neon Demon' are meticulously crafted. Jesse's transformation from an innocent newcomer to a more complex figure is mirrored by the development of the supporting characters. This evolution is not just a testament to the actors' skills but also to the film's intricate storytelling. The characters' journeys are both captivating and unsettling, contributing to the film's overall impact.

Themes and Symbolism

The Obsession with Beauty

The film delves deeply into society's fixation on beauty. Jesse's transformation from an innocent girl to the titular Neon Demon is a journey marked by her growing self-obsession and her ability to captivate those around her. This theme is explored through a series of stunning, highly conceptual images, particularly the recurring motif of neon triangles. These triangles symbolize layers of depth that go beyond mere surface beauty, suggesting that what lies beneath is just as complex and significant.

Cannibalism as a Metaphor

Cannibalism in the film serves as a powerful metaphor for the cutthroat nature of the fashion industry. It represents how individuals are willing to consume others—both literally and figuratively—to achieve their own goals. This shocking imagery underscores the extreme lengths to which people will go to maintain their status and beauty.

Hollywood's Dark Side

The movie also sheds light on the darker aspects of Hollywood. It portrays a world where superficiality reigns supreme and where the pursuit of fame and beauty can lead to one's downfall. This theme is not just a critique of the fashion industry but also a broader commentary on the entertainment industry as a whole. Hollywood's dark side is laid bare, revealing the sacrifices and moral compromises that often accompany the quest for stardom.

Narrative Structure and Pacing

Storytelling Techniques

The narrative structure of The Neon Demon is both unique and deliberate. Every shot feels meticulously composed, with each element within the frame serving a purpose. The camera movements, or lack thereof, offer a commentary on the scene's content. This intentional design makes the storytelling feel significant and purposeful.

Pacing and Tension

The pacing of the film is notably slow, with scenes often extending beyond their natural end. This creates a sense of prolonged tension, as viewers are left in long silences and emotionless dialogue. This slow pacing can be seen as both a strength and a weakness, depending on the viewer's perspective. Some may find it excruciating, while others may appreciate the deliberate build-up of tension.

Comparisons to Other Films

When compared to other films, The Neon Demon stands out for its unique pacing. Unlike traditional crime thrillers that rely on fast-paced action, this film takes its time to unfold. This "Real Time" style of directing can be seen as a new approach, where every moment is experienced in real-time, adding to the overall atmosphere of the film.

Critical Reception and Public Perception

Cannes Film Festival Reaction

"The Neon Demon" premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received a mixed reception. Some critics praised its bold visual style and daring narrative, while others found it lacking in substance. The film's provocative nature sparked heated debates among attendees, making it one of the most talked-about films of the festival.

Critics vs. Audience Opinions

The film's reception among critics and audiences was notably divided. Critics were split, with some hailing it as a masterpiece and others dismissing it as overrated. On the other hand, general audiences seemed to either love or hate the film, with little middle ground. This polarization is reflected in its ratings, which range from glowing reviews to harsh criticisms.

Long-term Impact on Refn's Career

Despite the mixed reviews, "The Neon Demon" has had a lasting impact on director Nicolas Winding Refn's career. The film solidified his reputation as a filmmaker unafraid to take risks and push boundaries. While it may not have been a box office smash, its influence can be seen in the way it has sparked discussions about the role of visual storytelling in cinema.

Comparative Analysis with Other Works

Similarities to Starry Eyes

"The Neon Demon" shares several thematic and stylistic elements with "Starry Eyes." Both films delve into the obsession with beauty and the dark side of Hollywood. They use horror elements to explore the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve fame. The visual aesthetics in both films are striking, with a heavy emphasis on color and light to convey deeper meanings.

Contrasts with Only God Forgives

While "The Neon Demon" and "Only God Forgives" are both directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, they differ significantly in tone and narrative structure. "Only God Forgives" is more abstract and violent, focusing on themes of revenge and redemption. In contrast, "The Neon Demon" is a more straightforward critique of the fashion industry and societal standards of beauty. The pacing in "The Neon Demon" is more deliberate, allowing for a slow build-up of tension.

Influences from Brett Easton Ellis

Brett Easton Ellis's influence on "The Neon Demon" is evident in its portrayal of superficiality and moral decay. The film's characters are reminiscent of those in Ellis's novels, who often lead hollow lives filled with excess and depravity. This comparative review helps individuals make informed decisions based on specific needs, especially when considering the film's impact on audience perception.

The Role of Music and Sound Design

Cliff Martinez's Score

Cliff Martinez's score for The Neon Demon is a standout element that significantly shapes the film's atmosphere. Unlike traditional film scores that blend into the background, Martinez's music is deliberately prominent. This bold approach ensures the music is front and center, enhancing the storytelling experience. His use of electronic and synthetic sounds, inspired by 70s disco and Giorgio Moroder, adds a unique texture that aligns perfectly with the film's visual style.

Sound as a Narrative Device

In The Neon Demon, sound is not just an accompaniment but a crucial narrative device. The film employs sound to heighten tension, underscore emotional beats, and even foreshadow events. This method of using sound to drive the narrative is a testament to the meticulous sound design that went into the film. The strategic placement of music and sound effects ensures that the audience remains engaged and attuned to the unfolding story.

Creating Atmosphere Through Audio

The audio landscape of The Neon Demon is meticulously crafted to create an immersive experience. From the eerie silence of certain scenes to the pulsating beats of the soundtrack, every sound element is designed to evoke a specific emotional response. This careful attention to audio detail helps in building the film's unsettling and hypnotic atmosphere. The result is a viewing experience where the audience is constantly on edge, fully immersed in the world of the film.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "The Neon Demon" is a visually stunning film that leaves a lasting impression, even if it doesn't fully succeed in its storytelling. Nicolas Winding Refn's return to form is marked by bold stylistic choices and strong performances, particularly from Elle Fanning. However, the film's heavy-handed themes and clichéd portrayal of the fashion industry can be off-putting. While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, "The Neon Demon" is a unique cinematic experience that is worth watching for its artistic merits alone. Over time, it may grow on viewers who appreciate its visual flair and daring approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Neon Demon about?

The Neon Demon is a movie about a young girl named Jesse who moves to Los Angeles to become a model. As she rises in the fashion industry, she faces jealousy and danger from those around her.

Who directed The Neon Demon?

The Neon Demon was directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, a Danish filmmaker known for his unique visual style and provocative storytelling.

Who stars in The Neon Demon?

Elle Fanning plays the lead role of Jesse. The movie also features performances by Jena Malone, Keanu Reeves, and Christina Hendricks.

What are the main themes of The Neon Demon?

The movie explores themes like the obsession with beauty, the dark side of Hollywood, and the extreme lengths people will go to for fame.

How was The Neon Demon received by critics?

The Neon Demon had mixed reviews. Some critics praised its visual style and performances, while others felt it was too focused on style over substance.

Is The Neon Demon similar to other films?

The Neon Demon has been compared to other movies like Starry Eyes and Only God Forgives. It also shares some thematic elements with the works of Brett Easton Ellis.