Elizabeth Banks sizzles as a facialist cracking under pressure. Hollywood has a knack for looking inward, crafting tales that expose the pressures and pitfalls of fame and beauty culture. Skincare, the latest venture directed by Banks herself, dives into this world, revealing both its glamour and its darkness.
In Skincare, Elizabeth Banks takes on multiple roles, serving as both the director and star of the film. She portrays Hope Goldman, a longtime facialist-to-the-stars facing increasing stress when a rival sets up shop nearby. As her business struggles, Hope’s paranoia escalates, unraveling before our eyes.
Exploring the World of Beauty
The script co-written by Austin Peters, Sam Freilich, and Deering Regan misses some marks but boasts a stellar performance from Elizabeth Banks. Known for her roles from The Hunger Games‘ Effie Trinket to directing Pitch Perfect 2, Banks brings charm and intensity to Hope Goldman.
Banks’ experience with heightened characters serves her well, portraying Hope’s descent without losing her relatable edge. Despite high stakes with rent due and a threatening stalker, she maintains her grounded performance which keeps viewers engaged.
Support Cast Highlighted
Lewis Pullman, recognized for his role in Top Gun: Maverick, shines as Jordan, a seedy life coach who becomes entangled in Hope’s turbulent world. As one of the few constants in her life, his performance adds depth to the storyline.
The supporting cast includes Nathan Fillion as Brett, a cheating talk-show host, and Erik Palladino as Armen, Hope’s overprotective mechanic. These characters embody the male figures complicating Hope’s life and add layers to the narrative complexity.
Narrative Shortcomings
Despite its potential, Skincare‘s plot encounters issues. Is Hope a victim manipulated by her own ambitions or is she shrewdly navigating dangerous waters? This ambiguity leaves viewers uncertain about her true nature. The film struggles with tone – oscillating between thriller and dark comedy without finding firm ground.
The depiction of a stalker’s brutal actions against Hope lacks appropriate gravity, sometimes glossing over moments that warrant deep emotional impact. The screenplay falters here, never allowing these significant moments to resonate fully with the audience.
Visual Appeal and Direction
Austin Peters brings his music video expertise to the fore with visually appealing sequences that bolster the film’s aesthetic. Close-ups of beauty treatments add an eerie undertone to the industry critique at play.
Peters’ stylish direction makes Skincare a feast for the eyes even when its storytelling lacks focus. The soundtrack featuring Orville Peck and Katy Perry’s hits enhances its cool factor and energizes the narrative flow.
A Mixed Bag
While imperfect in its execution, Skincare remains entertaining primarily due to standout performances by Elizabeth Banks and Lewis Pullman. The film provides fleeting looks at deeper industry criticisms but falls short of delivering them compellingly. It’s certainly a visual treat but lacks narrative substance – much like its subject matter.
If you’re looking for an engaging spectacle that explores the entanglement of beauty and madness without diving too deep into dark themes, Skincare might just be worth your time.
Follow Us
