Wonder Watchlist

Every once in awhile there comes a film that truly makes you go, “Yeah, this was made for me.” From the moment the first poster for A24’s newest release Love Lies Bleeding was shared, which showed off layers of muscles on Katy O’Brian there was a shift in the universe.

At the helm of this passion soaked lesbian love story is director and cowriter Rose Glass, best known for her physiological religious thriller Saint Maud. Glass takes this star studded cast of Kristen Stewart (Lou), Katy O’Brian (Jackie), Jena Malone (Beth), Ed Harris (Lou Sr.) and throws them into a world of lust, love, revenge, and violence.

This film, at its center is a love story between two women, Lou and Jackie, which quickly dives into their complicated lives. As their love grows, so do the pressures of their lives. Jackie is doing what she needs to perfect her body, and Lou is holding what remains of her family together. And what starts as a beautiful gay love story turns into skull crushing blood drenched fight to survive.

Everything about this film just works, from the casting, costume design, cinematography, and score. The film shines the most when Lou and Jackie are together; the pairing of Stewart with her impeccable line delivery and O’Brian with her charming gaze is genius. Kudos to casting by Lindsey Graham and Mary Vernieu. Both actresses make it so believable that they are in love. With them both being queer in real life, their moments of togetherness seem much more real, making it easy to connect with them. Ed Harris, Dave Franco, and Jena Malone bring an interesting dynamic to Lou specifically. Harris excels in giving that unsettling feeling as soon as he pops up on screen, as does Franco, who exudes that sleaziness so well. They both make it known their intentions, there’s no gray area for them. Malone has a performance that, although it doesn’t have a ton of screen time, leaves a lasting impact throughout the film.

If there were ever any doubt about the importance of proper costuming, all that needs to be shown is this film. Olga Mill makes sure each piece of clothing creates a vibe all on its own, from the muscle tanks to the cut-off t-shirts, and windbreaker jackets. Along with mullets, skullets, and everything in between. Matched with a score that is equal parts synth and sinister by Clint Mansell, paired with the moody cinematography from Ben Fordesman, which gives their small town a personality. Love Lies Bleeding captures the aesthetic and atmosphere perfectly without making it gimmicky.

Love Lies Bleeding is a testament for films, and any production really, for the need for intimacy coordinators. This film shows queer love with no holding back. Lots of sex is had in this film between Lou and Jackie, and it’s deeply intimate. Both actresses seem completely comfortable with one another, and it makes for so incredibly beautiful and steamy moments. With the guidance of intimacy coordinator Christine McHugh, each scene captures the passion in front and behind the camera.

There were only a few things in this film that could’ve improved upon: the pacing, the runtime, and some characterization for Jackie. Without giving away too much of the film, it takes a little too long to get to the conflict that occurs. The first act is slow in sections in comparison to the final act, which could’ve used about fifteen to twenty minutes more to flesh out. Jackie, although she’s a compelling character, doesn’t get as much backstory as Lou, maybe an intentional choice to make her more mysterious.

Love Lies Bleeding is a film that shows queer love as a powerful force in a messed-up world. It’s for those hopeless romantics out there with so much to give. It shows love as a superpower to overcome hardships. It’s entertaining from the opening title card to even after the credits roll. With sensual and intense performances displayed on a backdrop of a moody New Mexico, this film is one of a kind.