In A24’s latest horror film, “Opus,” an aspiring journalist got a golden opportunity to preview an iconic pop star's first new record in 30 years. However, the opportunity quickly turned sour as she discovered said star was running a murderous cult. Throughout, she battled to escape with her life and a story.
The film starred Ayo Edibiri as the journalist, Ariel, and John Malkovich as the pop star, Moretti. “Opus” was the feature-length directorial debut of Mark Anthony Green, who also wrote the film.
Highs
On a sensory level, “Opus” was nearly perfect. Its visuals were saturated and warm, creating a stark contrast to the dark horrors. The cult’s base was set in the middle of a desert, a setting that acted both as a beautiful oasis and as an isolating death trap. Moretti’s character shined through in the fashion of the film, with luxurious and extravagant outfits fit for a diva.
Musically, both the film’s score and in-universe music were great. The score was lively and suspenseful, making use of non-digital sounding instruments to give it both a tense and spiritual feeling fitting of a cult. Moretti’s in-universe songs were catchy and layered with a grand sound. It was believable that he would be such an iconic star.
These all helped elevate already great horror. “Opus” used its scares somewhat sparingly, making them count when they happened. The film especially utilized disgusting fears well. Throughout, it maintained a tense, captivating pacing.
Lows
The script was the weakest part of “Opus.” The mystery and twists were weakened by a poor use of planting and payoff. There were elements planted that never got satisfyingly fulfilled and reveals that weren’t properly set up. The plot also had a few logical gaps.
The characters were flat as well. Ariel had a solid setup, but her arc went in a disappointingly predictable direction. “Opus" was a story about isolation, and Ariel was surrounded by people who sought to control or kill her- this should have cracked her character open in surprising ways. The side characters were also generally one-note, with the exception of Moretti who was both charismatic and frightening.
The weaknesses became especially clear in an overly drawn out, unrealistic ending. The motives revealed were weak and nonsensical. The cult element broke its believability. The ending over-explained the entire film and would have been more effective if it were a shorter epilogue.
Verdict
Green’s directorial debut was promising. With improvement, he may one day direct a great movie. “Opus” was a gripping film with an outstanding sensory direction, but the script held it back from its full potential. Although deeply flawed, it was overall an entertaining horror about fame as a literal cult.
Rating: 6 out of 10
Frank Remski is a film and theater reviewer for The Eastern Echo. He is majoring in media studies and journalism and minoring in public relations. He has worked for The Echo since summer of 2023 and has written both news stories and opinion pieces.
