Examining Expectations: Zoë Kravitz’s ‘Blink Twice’ on Women and Trauma
Zoë Kravitz’s directorial debut, “Blink Twice,” has been described as a ‘Get Out’ for women, a thrilling and culturally relevant film that delves deep into the dynamics of power. Unlike its male-centered counterpart, Kravitz’s film puts women at the forefront, exploring the complexities of power and its impact on individuals. In a recent interview with NBC News, Kravitz shared her intentions behind the film, stating, “I wanted to explore power, not necessarily empowerment, but power as an entity, and what that does to us, what people will do to get it, and what people do once they have it, the abuse of power.” She highlights how power is inherently oppressive, creating a hierarchy where someone must be at the bottom for others to rise to the top.
The Narrative of Power
The story follows the journey of Frida, a young cocktail waitress portrayed by Naomi Ackie, who finds herself entangled in the lavish lifestyle of a famous billionaire, Slater King, played by Channing Tatum. Alongside her friend Jess, played by Alia Shawkat, Frida is drawn into a world of luxury and privilege, only to discover the dark underbelly that lies beneath the surface. As they navigate the opulent surroundings of King’s private island, the women are confronted with eerie occurrences that challenge their perception of reality.
Social Commentary Through Storytelling
Kravitz’s film serves as a compelling commentary on societal expectations placed on women and the ways in which they are often silenced or forced to conform. Through Frida’s character, the audience witnesses the absurdity of the roles women are expected to play, from smiling through their trauma to communicating silently due to a lack of safety in speaking out. Kravitz explains, “Women are constantly expected to pretend like we don’t remember. We’re constantly expected to smile through our trauma and our pain, and we’re constantly needing to communicate to each other with just our eyes because we don’t feel safe to speak.”
The Casting Choice
The casting of Channing Tatum as Slater King was a deliberate choice by Kravitz to challenge traditional perceptions of predators. By presenting King as charming and seemingly safe, the film subverts expectations and forces viewers to confront the reality of power dynamics in society. Ackie’s portrayal of Frida adds depth and complexity to the character, requiring her to navigate a range of emotions and experiences seamlessly. Kravitz praises Ackie’s ability to convey these nuances, stating, “To go from drama to comedy to action to fierceness, it’s so many things, and she does it so well.”
The film’s relevance in today’s society is striking, as it sheds light on the widespread mistreatment of women and the abuse of power that transcends social and economic boundaries. Kravitz emphasizes that the issue of power dynamics extends beyond billionaires and celebrities, affecting individuals in various spheres of life. She emphasizes, “This isn’t just about billionaires or rich men. This is about anyone that has power. It can be your boss. It can be the guy down the street following you home. It can be a family member. It can be anybody.”
In conclusion, Zoë Kravitz’s “Blink Twice” is a thought-provoking exploration of power, trauma, and societal expectations placed on women. Through compelling storytelling and nuanced character development, the film challenges viewers to rethink their perceptions of power and privilege. As Kravitz continues to navigate the complexities of filmmaking, her directorial debut serves as a testament to her talent and vision as a storyteller.