I am a fairly easy sell for a movie, particularly a genre film, when its tone, mood and aesthetics are up my alley. "Bliss" does that, which is why I've found myself throwing it on frequently over the last few years.
Despite issues I have with some of the dialogue, and the Pulp Fiction-esque drug-buy scene, I'm all in for the journey. Begos' visual sensibilities and set pieces keep me coming back. This film feels very much like a West coast take on the 80s and early 90s, gritty exploitation run of New York films; specifically Abel Ferrara's filmography. The use of neon lights, 16mm grain and chaotic perspectives is enough to capture a simple dude like me. I love it!
Our main character is challenging, no doubt. She is quite unlikable. She is crass, selfish and, well, hard to root for? With that said, her only antagonist is herself. The minimal storytelling style is suitable for a movie like this; nightmare logic and a "descent into madness." This combination could absolutely alienate a general audience and any issues one might have with the film, are likely understandable. It is far from a traditional or comprehensive narrative, but that just doesn't bother me.
A great strength it has, is it's runtime. It doesn't overstay its welcome, which when combined with all above, makes a fantastic midnight movie. After Joe's "neon trio" (Bliss, VFW and Christmas Bloody Christmas) I've found myself really looking forward to seeing what he does next. I'm sure it will be polarizing.
8/10.
Despite issues I have with some of the dialogue, and the Pulp Fiction-esque drug-buy scene, I'm all in for the journey. Begos' visual sensibilities and set pieces keep me coming back. This film feels very much like a West coast take on the 80s and early 90s, gritty exploitation run of New York films; specifically Abel Ferrara's filmography. The use of neon lights, 16mm grain and chaotic perspectives is enough to capture a simple dude like me. I love it!
Our main character is challenging, no doubt. She is quite unlikable. She is crass, selfish and, well, hard to root for? With that said, her only antagonist is herself. The minimal storytelling style is suitable for a movie like this; nightmare logic and a "descent into madness." This combination could absolutely alienate a general audience and any issues one might have with the film, are likely understandable. It is far from a traditional or comprehensive narrative, but that just doesn't bother me.
A great strength it has, is it's runtime. It doesn't overstay its welcome, which when combined with all above, makes a fantastic midnight movie. After Joe's "neon trio" (Bliss, VFW and Christmas Bloody Christmas) I've found myself really looking forward to seeing what he does next. I'm sure it will be polarizing.
8/10.