The backdrop of the film "Love Lies Bleeding", directed by Rose Glass, is initially mundane. We're introduced to Lou (portrayed by Kristen Stewart), a gym manager faced with a clogged toilet. However, the ensuing two hours push Lou through a series of messier predicaments. The movie is a potent concoction of emotion, characterized by love intertwined with deceit and violence. This exhilarating narrative revolves around a steroid-addicted muscleman and is marked by multiple unexpected twists that only add to its sheer raw strength. Some of these audacious twists might fall flat, particularly towards the frenzied climax, but overall, Glass’s film stands testament to her unique and relentless talent.
Lou resides in a remote New Mexico township glossed over by the American Dream. Set in 1989 at the twilight of the muscleman hero phase, the narrative portrays Lou as the daughter of a notorious family. Her father Lou Sr. brilliantly depicted by Ed Harris, runs a gun range and smuggles arms across the border. He is the mortician of his foes, a ravine nearby serving as their graveyard, and rumors abound that Lou’s mother might be one of them. Lou’s sister, Beth (played by Jena Malone) is tortured by her abusive husband, JJ (played by Dave Franco).
Into this volatile setting walks in Jackie (Katy O’Brian), an intimidating bodybuilder training for a Las Vegas contest. Jackie changes Lou’s life profoundly. She introduces Lou to a surreal world of steroids and grueling physical exercise. Jackie, portrayed splendidly by O’Brian, mirrors a superhero who feeds on steroids and Lou’s love, however, harboring a darkness within.
Initially, "Love Lies Bleeding" mirrors classic noir, with Jackie making irreversible decisions. The film brilliantly amalgamates elements from "Drive" and "Thelma & Louise," along with the iconic "Red Rock West." The narrative takes a dark turn when an act of gruesomeness profoundly impacts Jackie and Lou's relationship, leading to an unforeseen climax.
Rose Glass has innovatively crafted a narrative that doesn't merely recycle noir tropes, but ventures into the surreal and unpredictable. The final act might be chaotic for some; however, O'Brian's performance salvages the narrative’s ambiguity brilliantly. Although Glass refrains from overly stylized scenes, she sustains the grim, sweaty and dirty authenticity of the film’s environment. Credit also goes to Clint Mansell for his incredible score.
Kristen Stewart’s performance as Lou is impressive. Lou does not portray a victim but a resilient character invoking a cacophony of both vulnerability and confidence. Lou’s love for Jackie amplifies her character's strength. At its core, "Love Lies Bleeding" is a tale of obsession. Even amongst anarchy, Glass maintains a firm narrative control, resonating strength amid struggles.
