Zoe Kravitz’ directorial debut, Blink Twice, offers a glimpse into her potential as a filmmaker, crafting a stylish thriller set against the backdrop of a luxurious island getaway. The film introduces a world of opulence, where guests are invited to indulge in endless pleasures, but it quickly becomes clear that not everything is as it seems. Beneath the surface of this dream-like paradise lurks something far more sinister. While Kravitz succeeds in establishing a sense of unease, the film ultimately struggles to turn that tension into something more substantial, leaving viewers wanting more from both the narrative and its characters.

 

As the story unfolds, the repetitive indulgences of island life are interrupted by eerie, disorienting shifts that expose the darker side of paradise. The film boasts a solid cast, including Naomi Ackie, Alia Shawcat, Christian Slater, Simon Rex, Haley Joel Osment, Adria Arjona, and Geena Davis. However, none of them are given enough material to truly stand out—except for Channing Tatum in his villainous role as Slater King. Tatum embraces the opportunity to play against type, delivering a performance that outshines the rest. His portrayal of King, a tech billionaire with a sinister agenda, is compelling and gives the film its most intriguing moments, though even his character is held back by the film’s lack of depth.

 

Drawing clear inspiration from Get Out, Blink Twice attempts to blend social and political commentary with its thriller elements. However, where Get Out was sharp and incisive, Blink Twice struggles to land its message. The commentary feels muddled and, at times, tone-deaf, as the film leans into its themes but never fully explores them. The film aspires to deliver a cultural critique, but without the necessary substance, it fails to make a lasting impact.

 

The film builds to a fiery and chaotic climax, but even then, it fizzles out before fully igniting. Kravitz clearly has potential as a director, and her ability to build atmosphere shows promise, but Blink Twice ultimately feels like a film with intriguing ideas that never quite come together. It’s a debut that suggests a bright future for Kravitz, but the film itself is more of an ember that fails to fully ignite.