Love Lies Bleeding – Film Review

Love Lies Bleeding is a gripping romantic thriller that manages to entangle viewers in its web of passion, crime, and loyalty. Directed by Rose Glass with a collaborative screenplay effort with Weronika Tofilska, the film crafts a visually stunning and emotionally complex narrative. It sets itself apart by blending elements of romance, suspense, and action seamlessly, held together by powerful performances, notably from Kristen Stewart and Katy O’Brian. As a co-production between the United Kingdom and the United States, it is a cinematic venture that ambitiously tackles themes of love, ambition, and the shadows cast by a criminal past.

The film is staged in the 1980s, an era teeming with vibrant culture and transformative social dynamics. It taps into this rich vein by incorporating a stunning aesthetic of neon lights and retro fashion, alongside an evocative soundtrack that resonates with the time. The setting is not merely a backdrop but an integral part of the story, encapsulating the dreams and desperation of the era.

At the heart of Love Lies Bleeding is the turbulent relationship between Lou (Kristen Stewart), a reclusive gym manager with deep ties to her crime-ridden family, and Jackie (Katy O’Brian), a determined bodybuilder whose aspirations stretch beyond the limits of their small town. Their romance, intense and fraught with danger, serves as the film’s driving force. Stewart and O’Brian deliver powerful performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters’ love story. Their chemistry is palpable, making the audience root for their success despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacles thrown in their way by Lou’s criminal entanglements.

Ed Harris gives a noteworthy performance as Lou Sr., the patriarch of the criminal family, embodying the complexities of a man torn between his illicit legacy and the love for his daughter. His portrayal adds a crucial layer to the film, highlighting the intricate web of family loyalty that traps the characters. Jena Malone and Anna Baryshnikov shine as Beth and Daisy, respectively, providing crucial support to the narrative and deepening the exploration of family and ambition.

Director Rose Glass and co-writer Weronika Tofilska craft a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. They adeptly navigate the dual themes of love and crime, examining how deeply the two can intertwine. The script is tightly woven, allowing the characters’ personal journeys to unfold against the larger backdrop of the plot’s suspenseful twists and turns. However, the film does at times tread a familiar path, echoing themes and dynamics seen in other crime-tinged love stories. This isn’t necessarily a detriment, but it does make one wish for a few more unexpected turns to truly set Love Lies Bleeding apart.

The film’s 1980s setting is not only an aesthetic choice but a thematic one, reflecting on the decade’s pursuit of dreams against a backdrop of societal and personal upheaval. The production design, costume, and soundtrack all work harmoniously to immerse the viewer in the era, elevating the narrative beyond mere nostalgia. Yet, while the setting enriches the film, it occasionally overshadows the narrative, leading to moments where style seems to prevail over substance.

Cinematographer Ben Fordesman does an exquisite job of capturing the neon-soaked streets and the stark, sweaty atmosphere of the gym where much of the drama unfolds. His use of light and shadow effectively mirrors the characters’ internal conflicts, adding a layer of visual storytelling that complements the script beautifully.

The pacing of Love Lies Bleeding is another of its strengths. It manages to balance slower, more introspective moments with bursts of action and suspense, keeping the viewer engaged from start to finish. The final act, in particular, is a masterclass in tension, bringing all the film’s threads together in a climax that is both satisfying and heart-wrenching.

However, Love Lies Bleeding is not without its flaws. At times, the film’s ambitious scope feels slightly restrained, possibly due to budgetary limitations or the constraints of its genre. Certain plot developments feel rushed or underexplored, leaving the audience wanting more. Additionally, while the film aims for a profound exploration of its themes, it occasionally lapses into genre tropes that, while effective, might detract from its originality.

Despite some minor critiques, Love Lies Bleeding is a compelling and beautifully crafted film that succeeds in telling a poignant story of love, ambition, and the cost of dreams. It is a testament to the talents of Rose Glass, Weronika Tofilska, and the cast, who together create a world that is at once familiar and entirely unique. With its blend of romance, thriller, and drama, the film is sure to resonate with audiences seeking depth and passion in their cinematic experiences.