‘ Love Lies Bleeding’ was arguably the most hotly debated film of the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. Anyone could just take a random cross section of the written reviews and see those critics either really loved it or hated it. One could argue that sort of dichotomy isn’t exactly productive. The only thing that is certain about this release is that hardcore fans of Kristen Stewart will flock to see it. Whether critics say it’s wonderful or utter garbage won’t impact that one bit. What that being said, let me share my take on ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ (Yes, I can hear your collective groans through the speakers on my computer).
‘Love Lies Bleeding’ is a film absent of fear. The experience was in many ways invigorating. In a world cookie cutter narrative and sequels for sequels sake, Glass’s latest project stand tall. Intense and vibrant story telling which enhanced by the stellar performance of both Stewart and O’Brien. ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ isn’t going to be everyone’s cup of tea. Glass does mix in some absurdist moments which snaps audiences out of the narrative. These moments don’t enhance the story telling and become more of a distraction. While I’ll grant Glass and screen writer Weronika Tofilska having their own vision for the tale, the story was strong enough without taking this risk.
At the heart of the film, we have a twisted love story between Lou (Stewart) and Jackie (O’Brien). Jackie comes into town, looking for a job as she makes her way to Vegas to compete in the Body Building Championships. Lou runs the local gym and meets Jackie one night right at closing, sparks immediately begin to fly. They immediately bond, Lou does the most logical thing, offer Jackie some anabolic steroids, and the story takes off at that point. We quickly learn that both of them have a twisted past, anger issues, and Jackie’s creepy ass dad (played by Ed Harris) has some skeletons in his closet.
‘Love Lies Bleeding’ is another example of how stellar performances elevate the source material. Some might want to label the film as a twisted lesbian love story. Labels on a film can often be disingenuous. Glass and Tofiska’s words combined with top notch performances from Stewart and Glass resulted in a fantastic experience at the theater. Call it whatever you like. I’ll just stick with referring to it as a must see.