An art gallery owner is haunted by her ex-husband’s novel, a violent thriller she interprets as a veiled threat and a symbolic revenge tale.

REVIEW

IT- Betrayal. Guilt. Revenge. Redemption. These are some of the themes surrounding Nocturnal Animals by director and fashion designer, Tom Ford, in his second feature film. Ford stylishly contrasts between pulp and opulence; weakness and strength; poor and rich; reality and fiction while adding a hint of irony.

When I watched the trailer, I thought this movie would be pretentious and tedious. Another artistic film revolving around the affluent and the emptiness money brings them. It is a story that has been told many times, but what separates this film from others is Ford’s visual style and the thought provoking way he sets up the plot (so many metaphors and exquisite colours). I was surprised by just how honest and raw it is. It opens a door and shows the emptiness of consumerism and how guilt can devour when it festers.

The cast consists of Amy Adams, Jake Gyllenhaal, Armie Hammer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Michael Shannon and Isla Fisher. How can you go wrong with all this talent?! Easy, you can’t! Each and every one of these performers, no matter their screen time, bring their A game.

What I love the most about this film is the fact that it has a weird open-ending and has the perfect amount of vagueness throughout the entire film. This was clearly done intentionally to have open discussions with others. That being said, not everyone will enjoy this movie. It cuts to different scenes and timelines at a rapid speed but is a bit slow with its plot so patience is a prerequisite.

Is this a twisted drama masquerading as a psychological thriller or is it a psychological thriller masquerading as a twisted drama? You have to watch to find out. If you do decide to watch it, let me know your perspective. I have my own, but wouldn’t want to spoil it for you.

7/10  Watch it if vague movies, that make you think, is your thing! Honestly, it isn’t something I would have spent my money on, but totally worth my time.