How do you decide on a movie to watch? Huh, it’s always been about the director, the cast, and, in rare cases, the writer. One of those days, while browsing IMDb for a Zoë Kravitz film or anything Batman-related that I hadn’t seen, I came across Blink Twice if I’m in Danger, a 2024 psychological thriller marking Zoë Kravitz’s directorial debut. With a title that piqued my curiosity and Kravitz’s name attached as director, it didn’t need to promise much—I had to watch it immediately.
Co-written by Zoë Kravitz and E.T. Feigenbaum, Blink Twice stars and follows Channing Tatum as Slater King, a tech billionaire hosting a lavish gateway on a secluded island. Along with some other men, Slater King invites a mix of “I need a vacation” women—Sarah (played by Adria Arjona), Camila (Liz Caribel), Frida (Naomi Ackie), and her workmate Jess (Alia Shawkat)—all strangers who crossed paths at the billionaire’s fundraising gala… No spoilers, here’s my take on the film…
Blink Twice demands attention to fully appreciate its intricacies and depth. Its storytelling patterns echo the brilliance of Martin Scorsese’s Shutter Island, unfolding in a similarly cryptic yet engaging way. But unlike Shutter Island, Blink Twice offers a more resolved conclusion—though it’s up to you to decide if it truly “solves the puzzle.”
From its visuals to its dialogue, the film layers its psychological tension masterfully. Moments like Frida’s walk around with Slater, where the camera lingers on an old Asian woman—played by María Elena Olivares—holding a reptile, create an unsettling atmosphere. This adds to the film’s correlation with Martin’s Shutter Island, remember the Shh!! creepy woman? Repeated phrases like “Are you having a good time?” “Where is my lighter” and the recurring “I need a vacation”—spoken both in the first and final scenes—further deepens the mystery. Even Geena Davis’s character, Stacy, frequently dropping ominous red envelopes feels like a riddle waiting to be solved.
Blink Twice Cast
The cast is well-selected, each actor bringing nuance to their roles. Channing Tatum’s portrayal of Slater King stands out. Known for his action-packed and sports dramas, Tatum shifts gears here, balancing charisma and menace with ease.
Naomi Ackie is phenomenal as Frida, the film’s central figure. She navigates the chaos of her character with precision, while Alia Shawkat’s Jess adds a layer of tension and like-mindedness to their dynamic. Adria Arjona’s Sarah transitions seamlessly from calm and reserved to fierce and fearless, showcasing Kravitz’s emphasis on strong female characters. On this, I quote from Zoë Kravitz’s interview with Michelle Miller on CBC Sunday Morning: “I’m attracted to strong women—women who don’t see themselves as victims.” This philosophy shines through in the movie’s ending, which celebrates resilience and empowerment.
A Few Highlights…
The male supporting cast brings lighter moments, especially during the dinner scenes, but never distracts from the central narrative. The cinematography deserves praise too, with close-up shots and subtle movements amplifying the psychological tension. The soundtrack complements the mood perfectly, blending suspenseful tones with atmospheric sound effects.
Final Thoughts on Blink Twice
So, is Blink Twice worth your time? Absolutely. It’s a good, well-crafted film perfect for a cozy Saturday night with your partner. While it’s not overly graphic, it does include mature themes—nudity, curse words, and alcohol—making it unsuitable for younger audiences.
For a directorial debut, Zoë Kravitz has delivered a focused, thought-provoking thriller that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. And while Kravitz doesn’t appear onscreen, her vision is felt in every frame. Blink Twice is not just a movie; it’s a psychological puzzle that’s thrilling to piece together. Hope you get the chance to check it out!
