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[Sundance ’23] ‘Infinity Pool’ review: Grotesquely beautiful and hedonistic ride

Bad tourists.

Infinity Pool will end up being one of the strangest movies of 2023. Visually it is filled with disorienting montages while juxtaposing the beautiful scenery with obscene debauchery. Its story is filled with contradictions that will end up stunning audiences into silence and leave them eager to talk about everything they just witnessed.

James Foster (Alexander Skarsgard, The Northman) is a struggling writer on vacation with his wife Em (Cleopatra Coleman, Dopesick). When the two become a part of a fatal accident, the two  are given a unique option under the country’s strict legal system. James then meets a group of Western tourists that cause him to change his outlook on life.

Infinity Pool is a visceral experience that commands the audience to take things from moment to moment. Hallucinogenic drug trips, extreme violence, and graphic nudity (at least in the NC-17 version) are a constant part of what can be a sensory overload. It is an exhausting watch at times. The “downtime” is filled with over the top acts of hedonism and debauchery. 

The film can be looked at in a number of different ways. For one, it is a character study of James, who begins the trip as someone who is put together, even if he is something of a failure. As Infinity Pool chaotically rushes forward, he becomes less human, before becoming a snarling creature. There is a sadness to the entire process.

Infinity Pool is also a critique of the upper echelon of wealth. It is not as elegant as The Menu, but it definitely travels in the same social circles. It is a strange blend that does not put the commentary front and center, but it is always looming over everything that happens. The driving force behind the story only happens due to the financial resources of James.

my new plaid pants: The Pool is Open

The story also blithely mentions plot points that seem like they will be very important. Most obviously is the science fiction aspect. It seems like director Brandon Cronenberg is setting up for a story about what is and is not real, but Infinity Pool addresses this quickly. It ends up being somewhat important to the overarching plot, but having little impact on the ending.

The performances are great with Mia Goth being spectacular. While Jenna Ortega gets all the attention as the scream queen of the moment, Goth is constantly putting out great work that showcases her talent and aura. Her portrayal as Gabi Bauer is a highlight of Infinity Pool as she shows off the full range of her acting talent.

There is a humor to the movie that goes beyond black comedy. The laughs are intentional, but seem to be there to comfort the audience. They are also just another example of what a strange ride Infinity Pool is. The film is constantly toying with expectations and never lets anyone settle in for a second. 

The Sundance Film Festival takes place from January 19 -29. Full lineup can be found HERE

sundance film festival
[Sundance ’23] ‘Infinity Pool’ review: Grotesquely beautiful and hedonistic ride
Infinity Pool
An unsettling ride that never lets up. A complete mindfuck that will leave audiences breathless and wondering what they just witnessed.
Reader Rating0 Votes
0
An engaging story that doesn't let you look away - even when you want to
Mia Goth is amazing
The ending will be polarizing
9
Great

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