The 2022 satirical slasher film Bodies Bodies Bodies, directed by Halina Reijn, has captured attention for its unique blend of dark humour, social commentary, and mystery. Centred on a group of young adults whose party spirals into chaos during a stormy night, the movie cleverly critiques modern relationships, privilege, and digital culture, all while delivering an engaging thriller.
Below, we delve into the strengths and weaknesses of this intriguing film, exploring its narrative, performances, and thematic resonance.
A Fresh Take on the Whodunit Genre
At its core, Bodies Bodies Bodies offers a modern twist on the classic murder mystery. The film begins with a group of wealthy 20-somethings gathering at a remote mansion to ride out a hurricane. Seeking entertainment, they decide to play the titular game, Bodies Bodies Bodies, a party activity where players feign deaths and attempt to deduce the “killer” among them. However, things take a deadly turn when real murders start happening, plunging the group into paranoia and chaos.
Reijn skillfully uses the game as a springboard to critique the shallowness and performative nature of contemporary relationships, amplified by the characters’ constant reliance on social media. The claustrophobic setting and stormy atmosphere heighten the tension, as mistrust grows and alliances crumble. The narrative walks a fine line between satire and suspense, keeping viewers guessing until its unexpected conclusion.
Standout Performances and Character Dynamics
The ensemble cast delivers stellar performances, breathing life into the film’s exaggerated yet relatable characters. Amandla Stenberg (The Hate U Give) and Maria Bakalova (Borat Subsequent Moviefilm) anchor the story as Sophie and Bee, a couple whose relationship becomes a focal point of the unravelling drama.
Stenberg portrays Sophie with a mix of vulnerability and defiance, while Bakalova brings a quiet intensity to Bee, a newcomer navigating the group’s inner dynamics. Other notable performances include Rachel Sennott as the hilariously self-absorbed Alice, whose comedic timing provides much-needed levity, and Pete Davidson as the brash and unpredictable David, whose presence sets the tone for the chaos to follow.
Each character represents a caricature of millennial and Gen Z archetypes, from the hyper-online narcissist to the brooding cynic. While exaggerated, their interactions feel authentic, capturing the petty grievances and insecurities that fuel their descent into paranoia.
Satire Meets Suspense
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its ability to merge biting satire with genuine tension. Bodies Bodies Bodies doesn’t just poke fun at generational quirks; it uses them to drive the plot forward. The characters’ reliance on digital validation, virtue signalling, and fragile egos are as much a cause of their downfall as the murderer in their midst.
The film’s script, penned by Sarah DeLappe with a story by Kristen Roupenian, brims with sharp, self-aware dialogue. Lines like “You’re so toxic!” or “That’s gaslighting!” reflect the characters’ performative understanding of mental health jargon, adding a comedic edge to otherwise grim scenarios. The humour doesn’t undercut the suspense but instead accentuates the absurdity of their situation.
A Polarizing Ending
The movie’s finale has sparked debate among audiences and critics alike. Without spoiling too much, the resolution cleverly subverts expectations, offering a commentary on how miscommunication and paranoia can escalate into tragedy. While some viewers found the ending unsatisfying or abrupt, others appreciated its audaciousness and thematic alignment with the film’s satirical tone.
Visuals and Atmosphere
Visually, Bodies Bodies Bodies captures the suffocating intimacy of its setting. Cinematographer Jasper Wolf uses dim lighting and tight framing to evoke both a sense of isolation and impending doom. The storm raging outside mirrors the chaos within, creating a moody, atmospheric backdrop that enhances the narrative’s tension. The use of glow sticks and smartphone flashlights as primary light sources adds a creative touch, further immersing viewers in the characters’ panic and confusion.
Conclusion: A Bold, Modern Thriller
Bodies Bodies Bodies is a refreshing addition to the horror-comedy genre, delivering a clever critique of modern culture wrapped in a suspenseful, entertaining package. While its polarizing ending and reliance on archetypes may not resonate with everyone, the film’s sharp humour, strong performances, and inventive storytelling make it a standout.
For those seeking a thriller that combines genuine scares with biting social commentary, Bodies Bodies Bodies is a must-watch. Whether you love it or find it divisive, it’s a film that sparks conversation—an achievement in itself.
Click here to know more.
