As the slasher is undergoing an exciting resurgence of late, with a number of films acting as legacy sequels to classics, rejuvenations or homage to previous films/formulas, or a fresh new twist on tropes altogether, Instinct director Halina Reijn unleashes a slasher purpose-built for a new generation.
The film sees Sophie (Amanda Stenberg) and her shy girlfriend Bee (Maria Bakalova) heading to a “hurricane party” at the mansion home of Sophie’s childhood friend David (Pete Davidson), however, when a party game called “Bodies Bodies Bodies” among the group gets out of hand, the storm raging outside is nothing compared to the murderous game going on inside. But who is the one doing the killing?
Bodies Bodies Bodies is a satirical Gen Z (or zoomer) slasher that is an absolute hoot. A film that accurately depicts the social media influencer-led world and shows it up as the shallow, empty, false echo chamber that it is. Halina Reijn’s film and Sarah DeLappe’s brutally honest screenplay is funny, cutting and vicious. As the film well and truly lets loose on the current climate and the smiley face-wielding “we love everyone” crowd, showing them to be little more than untrustworthy vipers behind an emoji, every bit as deranged as the opposite end of the spectrum they purportedly oppose.
It may take a little time to get going but once it does, there’s no holding back. Although the uncomfortably appropriate finale will surely divide. The spirit of Wes Craven’s Scream is obviously visible, as is the mischievousness of unsung slashers like Fred Walton’s April Fools Day, all through the ultra-modern torch light of the latest iPhone! This really is a timely takedown of the top trend hot take notice me culture, where important issues are hurled around playing cards in order to gain followers and get Tiktok views!
The cast are great, perhaps a little too great for some (who may recognise some of the toxic characters being displayed here all too well), with Borat Subsequent Moviefilm breakout star Maria Bakalova on incredible form as Bee. Meanwhile, the likes of Amandla Stenberg, Myha’la Herrold, and Rachel Sennott really stand out among an ensemble that doesn’t have any weak link, which really helps enliven the whodunnit murder slasher fun… especially on a stormy night’s cinema viewing.
In short: Yerrr Bodies Bodies Bodies bouta drop some facts, it’s lit and deserves your bread. A major W. It’s Valid. Did that make sense or are we showing our age again?
