Love Lies Bleeding Review: Gripping and Tense Romantic Thriller

Love Lies Bleeding is a gripping romantic thriller that manages to entangle viewers in its web of passion, crime, and loyalty. Directed by Rose Glass with a collaborative screenplay effort with Weronika Tofilska, the film crafts a visually stunning and emotionally complex narrative. It sets itself apart by blending elements of romance, suspense, and action seamlessly, held together by powerful performances, notably from Kristen Stewart and Katy O’Brian. As a co-production between the United Kingdom and the United States, it is a cinematic venture that ambitiously tackles themes of love, ambition, and the shadows cast by a criminal past.

The film is staged in the 1980s, an era teeming with vibrant culture and transformative social dynamics. It taps into this rich vein by incorporating a stunning aesthetic of neon lights and retro fashion, alongside an evocative soundtrack that resonates with the time. The setting is not merely a backdrop but an integral part of the story, encapsulating the dreams and desperation of the era.

At the heart of Love Lies Bleeding is the turbulent relationship between Lou (Kristen Stewart), a reclusive gym manager with deep ties to her crime-ridden family, and Jackie (Katy O’Brian), a determined bodybuilder whose aspirations stretch beyond the limits of their small town. Their romance, intense and fraught with danger, serves as the film’s driving force. Stewart and O’Brian deliver powerful performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters’ love story. Their chemistry is palpable, making the audience root for their success despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacles thrown in their way by Lou’s criminal entanglements.

Ed Harris gives a noteworthy performance as Lou Sr., the patriarch of the criminal family, embodying the complexities of a man torn between his illicit legacy and the love for his daughter. His portrayal adds a crucial layer to the film, highlighting the intricate web of family loyalty that traps the characters. Jena Malone and Anna Baryshnikov shine as Beth and Daisy, respectively, providing crucial support to the narrative and deepening the exploration of family and ambition.

Director Rose Glass and co-writer Weronika Tofilska craft a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. They adeptly navigate the dual themes of love and crime, examining how deeply the two can intertwine. The script intertwines personal journeys with suspenseful twists. However, the film does at times tread a familiar path, echoing themes and dynamics seen in other crime-tinged love stories. While not a detriment, Love Lies Bleeding would benefit from more unexpected turns.

The film’s 1980s setting is not only an aesthetic choice but a thematic one. It reflects on the decade’s pursuit of dreams against a backdrop of societal and personal upheaval. The production design, costume, and soundtrack all work harmoniously to immerse the viewer in the era. This elevates the narrative beyond mere nostalgia. Yet, while the setting enriches the film, it occasionally overshadows the narrative. As a result, this leads to moments where style seems to prevail over substance.

Cinematographer Ben Fordesman does an exquisite job of capturing the neon-soaked streets. The stark, sweaty atmosphere of the gym is also great. His use of light and shadow mirrors the characters’ internal conflicts, adding depth to the script’s visual storytelling.

The pacing of Love Lies Bleeding is another of its strengths. It manages to balance slower, more introspective moments with bursts of action and suspense. This keeps the viewer engaged from start to finish. The final act, in particular, is a masterclass in tension. It brings all the film’s threads together in a climax that is both satisfying and heart-wrenching.

However, Love Lies Bleeding is not without its flaws. At times, the film’s ambitious scope feels slightly restrained, possibly due to budgetary limitations or the constraints of its genre. Certain plot developments feel rushed or underexplored, leaving the audience wanting more. The film occasionally falls into genre tropes, detracting from its originality.

Despite some minor critiques, Love Lies Bleeding is a compelling and beautifully crafted film. It succeeds in telling a poignant story of love, ambition, and the cost of dreams. The talents of Rose Glass, Weronika Tofilska, and the cast create a unique world. The film combines romance, thriller, and drama to captivate audiences.