Brandon Cronenberg has made a name for himself with a unique brand of disturbing science fiction. His last film, Possessor, was among my favourites of 2020, so naturally, I was excited about his next endeavour. Infinity Pool is another unsettling entry in his filmography, albeit not quite the provocative vision I was expecting.
That’s not to say this movie isn’t disturbing - trust me, it really is. The pops of graphic violence and explicit imagery are shocking but don’t feel gratuitous, fitting naturally within the story. It’s just not as thematically or narratively complex as the concept should have allowed. It’s consistently intriguing but rarely does it become truly fascinating or thought-provoking.
Still, Cronenberg’s distinct directorial style elevates even the most ordinary of scenes, and his visual creativity really shines through, especially during the film’s trippier sequences. The way he’s able to make a location feel tangible, but also slightly detached from reality is truly impressive. There’s also an unexpected, but welcome sense of dark humour throughout, even in some of the most disturbing and sadistic moments.
Alexander Skarsgård is an actor with impressive range, and he’s able to really show it off here. suave, cowardly, animalistic - no matter what the moment calls for, he’s more than capable. And Mia Goth? What can I say about her that hasn’t already been said? She’s a star! As is the case with most of her films, she’s the standout here, with a performance that’s both sexually charged and frighteningly unhinged.
Infinity Pool doesn’t always push its core ideas to their full potential, but it offers up a uniquely disturbing vision, fuelled by excellent performances from Skarsgård and Goth. Step aside David, there’s a new Cronenberg in town, and I can’t wait to see what he does next.
Review by: Benjamin Garrett
3.5/5
3.5/5