30.10.23
Remarkably provocative but with a questionable finale, Infinity Pool reflects the continued development of Brandon Cronenberg, similar to his father, in making films revolving around the destruction of the human self. Following a vacationing couple whose getaway takes a depraved turn into the bizarre and otherworldly, the film showcases a visually explorative story masquerading as one with deep meaning.
Cronenberg pulls the viewer into a hypnotic world juxtaposing gorgeous resort luxury and sinister secrets. Alexander Skarsgård gives a positively exhausting performance as the morally ambiguous James, showcasing his acting range and subverting expectations by portraying a ‘beta male’ protagonist miles from the arrogant alpha Matsson he played in Succession. Mia Goth is fantastic as the unsettling Gabi, delivering a frightening yet flamboyant performance that builds on her work in Pearl. There is the sense that her performance is over-sexualised and many scenes are gratuitous, but it fits the journey of the disturbing narrative.
Fans of Brandon’s first feature, Possessor, will appreciate the film’s subversive moments. It attempts to satirise reckless hedonism and power dynamics between the social classes, but it does feel a bit strained in its message. The narrative thread that resonated with me the most surrounds Infinity Pool’s commentary on the ‘package holiday’ consumer culture and ignorance of the nation’s traditions and laws. Surprisingly, there are also some exceptionally funny moments which come out of nowhere and play on audience reactions. Not all of its themes hold weight, however, and I’m not particularly impressed with the ending, but there are plenty of ‘Cronenbergian’ themes to enjoy for those who enjoy morbid cinema.