A strong sense of aesthetics awash you when you enter the world of Don’t Worry Darling, promising ingenuity and creativity through a strong premise and an extremely talented ensemble on both sides of the camera.
However, despite the technical and performing wizardry, the film is ultimately a disappointing endeavor, and the biggest letdowns of the year.
The film chronicles the story of Alice, living in the idyllic suburban town of Victory in the 1950s with her husband, Jack. As Alice investigates a string of strange occurrences in Victory that prove to be a concern for safety, she uncovers a deadly conspiracy that may threaten her life.
Blending the psychological thriller and horror genres, Don’t Worry Darling aspires to be a hyper stylised think piece in the post #MeToo era, touching upon issues of body autonomy, domesticity and patriarchal control. However, director Olivia Wilde and screenwriter Katie Silberman’s treatment of the script results in jarring pacing issues, delivering a rushed and muddled film that fails to live up to its potential.
Florence Pugh continues to be an tremendous acting talent on the rise, and her work on Don’t Worry Darling only affirms her prowess. Pugh’s portrayal of paranoia, disbelief and betrayal plays into the film’s overarching themes, elevating its quality in the process.
In his first leading role in a major Hollywood production, pop star Harry Styles turns in a mixed performance. As the miscast Jack, his character replete with unsatisfactory motivations and a meandering character arc, with his oft-over the top performance rendering him as the weakest point of the film.
Chris Pine surprises and enthralls in an against-type villain performance as the Victory overlord Frank. Slick, charming with an undercurrent of sinister evil, Pine easily slips into the role, providing a wonderful foil to Pugh’s Alice.
Matthew Libatique’s cinematography colorfully captures the world of the film, complimenting the vibrant scenery and delicate mise-en-scene from its architecture and costumes. John Powell, through his musical composition extends his creative scope with an experimental score, carrying a sense of horror and paranoia underneath it.
What had the potential to be a powerful film, the film frustrates audiences with its plot holes, unexplored aspects of the story and the rushed nature of the plot, leaving it incomplete. Even with all its strengths and creative ingenuity, Don’t Worry Darling rings hollow.
Texts of A Pop Culture Buff 