Love Lies Bleeding (2024) User Reviews

A love that bleeds

[steveinadelaide · 7/10 · 23 March 2024]

Rose Glass, the visionary director behind Saint Maud, throws another punch with Love Lies Bleeding, a neo-noir crime thriller that's both stylish and unsettling. Lou, a cautious gym manager, has her world turned upside down when she develops feelings for Jackie, a dedicated bodybuilder in Las Vegas training for a competition (Katie O'Brian). Sparks fly, but their budding romance gets entangled with Lou's dark family secrets, propelling them down a violent path.

Love Lies Bleeding isn't afraid to push boundaries. It evokes memories of classic thrillers like Body Double, with its neon-drenched aesthetic and underlying themes of obsession and desire. However, Glass injects a contemporary dose of female empowerment, subverting the stereotypical femme fatale trope. Jackie isn't just a damsel in distress; she's a complex character with her own agency, which adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative.

The film's greatest strength lies in its central performances. Stewart delivers a raw and intense portrayal of Lou, a woman yearning for connection but burdened by her past. O'Brian matches her intensity, embodying the steely determination and vulnerability of Jackie with remarkable nuance. Their chemistry is undeniable, making us invested in their tumultuous relationship, even as things spiral out of control.

While the plot takes some wild turns, it's the film's thematic exploration that lingers. Glass dissects the destructive nature of desire, and the lengths people go to in the name of love-or perhaps, obsession. The violence, though brutal, feels purposeful, serving as a metaphor for the emotional turmoil the characters endure.

Admittedly, the pacing can be uneven at times. The first act establishes the characters and their connection beautifully, but the middle section drags a bit as the focus shifts towards the criminal underbelly. However, the film regains its momentum in the final act, culminating in a climax that's both shocking and strangely cathartic.

Technically, Love Lies Bleeding is a knockout. The cinematography is sharp, using bold colours and contrasting lighting to create a visually arresting world. The pounding score complements the film's intensity, while the editing keeps the narrative taut without sacrificing character development.

Love Lies Bleeding isn't for the faint of heart. It's a film that revels in its own darkness, challenging us with its graphic violence and unconventional love story. But for those seeking a neo-noir experience that's both thrilling and thought-provoking, this is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Love Lies Bleeding is a film with flaws, but its bold direction, phenomenal performances, and exploration of complex themes make it a worthwhile watch, especially for fans of unconventional thrillers. Just be prepared for a wild ride.

A Brutal and Erotic

[ongoam · 7/10 · 8 May 2024]

Love, Lies, Bleeding was a Mixture between James Ellory and Cormac McCarthy. This Film was follow the story of a Romantic relationship between A Daughter of a Crime Lord and a Muscular Woman that led to a Horrific Incident. I know that this film was so brutal and Disturbing. But I Like it because This film was so beautiful and Horrifying. Nevertheless Rose Glass inspried this film from an 80s cult film, and you know that because I love how the director. Made this movies like this, and I know that because am a Film Critic and I know that. Loves, Lies, Bleeding was brutal and erotic too. I GIVE IT 7.1/10.

Worth the time

[aidanDpolonsky · 7/10 · 15 March 2024]

This isn't some jam down your throat gay movie. It's a movie with characters that happen to be gay. As someone who typically gets annoyed by movies that attempt this over the last decade now, I would say it wasn't overwhelming or assertive at all. Straight forward plot, but never getting too predictable. It does a wonderful job of showing fresh exciting love being deconstructed by the realities of life very well.

It was also the perfect length. It never feels like it's dragging on or being rushed.

Acting was above average for today's standards. Nobodies acting got in the way of the plot. Overall decent way to spend an early afternoon.

Expect of heavy sex scenes in the first third or so btw.

(Body)building a relationship is hard.

[Pjtaylor-96-138044 · 7/10 · 10 May 2024]

'Love Lies Bleeding (2024)' is a sweaty, grimy, bloody romantic crime thriller about a disillusioned woman who falls in love with a bodybuilding hitchhiker whose steroid-infused rage soon lands both of them in big trouble. It unashamedly - proudly, even - takes the often explicitly cishet, masculine revenge/crime-gone-wrong genre and tells it from a distinctly LGBT+, feminine angle that doesn't feel exploitative despite its graphic nature. It also doesn't box itself in with that 'feminine' label, allowing its female characters to exist with all the complexities and imperfections usually afforded to their male counterparts. It's refreshing to see a story like this be told from a creative team of primarily women, and director Rose Glass continues to impress with her sophomore feature. Filled with palpable texture and peppered with moments of stark surrealism, the feature typically avoids convention despite telling a fairly conventional tale. It's the kind of film you can almost smell, a dirty and down-to-earth representation of small-town America that's the opposite of 'Hollywood' (whatever that term is typically associated with). Its moments of shocking violence punctuate the interpersonal drama at its core and inherently raise its stakes. Kristen Stewart is really good a Lou, with a non-showy performance that feels tactile and real. She's able to hide a real darkness just beneath her shy yet brash exterior, and her initially meek interactions with Katy O'Brian believably bubble into the full-blown immersion associated with head-over-heels love. O'Brian turns in similarly impressive work, portraying a dangerous but vulnerable person whose inner life is layered and messy and likely not all that much more stable prior to her experiments with steroids. She's so ripped she could easily play She-Hulk without the aid of CGI (which, incidentally, I'd love to see), but it isn't her stunning physique that leaves the strongest impression and that's no easy feat. The supporting cast do a good job at making the world feel palpable, with Ed Harris' hair extensions always threatening to outact everyone they share a frame with (Harris himself is good too, of course) and Dave Franco channeling his brother to convincingly play a real creep (and somehow garner a hint of sympathy with a single word in his most memorable scene). Although it's not always as exciting or intense as I'd like, the piece has a strong atmosphere throughout and its world really does feel tangible. Its complex characters constantly reveal darker and darker aspects of themselves, all while its heroes fall deeper and deeper into an all consuming romance that might just doom them both. Its infrequent violence is as shocking as it is affecting, and its confident surrealism gives it a slightly ambiguous air that adds to its overall effect. It's a strong example of female and LGBT+ representation, too. It's not as good as Glass' previous picture, 'Saint Maude (2019)', but it's a really solid follow-up that's effective pretty much across the board.

Mesmerizing to watch.

[AfricanBro · 7/10 · 16 March 2024]

My first thought was it feels like the gym was depicted in the way someone who doesn't go to the gym imagines the gym is like. Like they watched Pumping Iron instead of visiting the nearest gym. It's like if Pumping Iron was a raunchy, lesbian, blood-soaked psychedelic experience. With a dash of crime family drama.

I found the cinematography of the movies to be quite impressive; it had a captivating aesthetic. Although it's not on an epic scale and mostly unfolds in remote settings, it's mesmerizingly filmed with themes of sex and violence. The characters are pretty good, so were the actors playing them. Kristen Stewart was Kristen Stewart, I think you already know what to expect when you see her in a movie, and I think she was pretty good. It took me a while to realize I recognized Katy O'Brian from The Mandalorian. I loved that she was homeless but still working out; if she can get swole living under a bridge, what's your excuse? Lol.

Theres a huge emphasis on smoking and drugs, it's a pretty big theme and mostly referenced on the radio. The story is alright, there's a love, crime and family drama.

It's quite raunchy. I wasn't expecting that, but I suppose the movie did give off those vibes. I just didn't watch any trailers or anything and went in blind. It also included some other adult/mature content like domestic violence. It's quite gory as well. Initially, it felt like it was penned by a man; I was surprised to learn it was written/directed by a woman afterward. I recall thinking that there will probably be a lot of people commenting on this, expressing their displeasure with how women are portrayed in movies written by men.

The movie had several moments where I thought to myself, well that's taken a weird turn. It gets more weird and weirder the longer in goes. It's really weird that it was common/normal back then to just hit your wife. It was jarring to watch. Franco's character is probably the worst one.

It's also one of those movies where none of the characters are good people, it's just bad people making bad decisions, in the name of love. I didn't really find myself rooting for anyone and l didn't feel particularly attached to the movie as a whole. I feel like it could've been better, and by better I mean more psychedelic, more violent, maybe even disturbing. It's not a movie for everyone, but it's pretty interesting and I enjoyed it. I like it but I don't know if it'll still be on my mind a month from now.

Freaky crime thriller with squalid surroundings and a celestial soundtrack

[PotassiumMan · 8/10 · 23 March 2024]

In the southwest in the late 1980s, a young female bodybuilder finds a new home in a small town. She comes across a young female employee at a gym whom she quickly connects with, but who turns out to be at odds with her family, a hive of degenerates. Their romance ends up being intertwined in a web of crime.

Kristen Stewart is quite good in this as the black sheep of the family and a determined rebel. Katy O'Brian turns out to be the unexpected life blood of this film. Her performance is so multidimensional that the film just wouldn't be as good without her. She conveys curiosity, fear, rage and ultimately ecstasy in the arms of her newfound muse. Her discovery of steroids adds a nice bonus, but it's possible this plot thread merely unleashed a fierce beast that was always there and never had a escape valve. Dave Franco is well-deployed in a brief but seething role as a scummy hooligan. Ed Harris is effectively cold-hearted as the local kingpin who seemingly owns everything in the town and has local law enforcement in his back pocket to cover up his dirty tracks.

Although profoundly gripping and impossible to tune out, this is definitely not for squeamish viewers. The violence here is quite ferocious. The tension is at times a turbo-charged level. It's been a while since a film filled me with some of that old school dread as it drew toward its climax. The soundtrack often lean on soothing New Wave beats, as if to provide some relief from the devilish storyline. At times disturbing, other times intensely atmospheric, this film offers an escape from mainstream fare. Through it all, the ending feels hard-earned and cathartic. Highly recommended to those like edgy filmmaking.

Thelma & Louise On Steroids

[stevendbeard · 6/10 · 18 March 2024]

I saw Love Lies Bleeding, starring Kristen Stewart-Charlie's Angels_2019, Snow White and the Huntsman; Katy O'Brian-The Mandalorian_tv, Black Lightning_tv; Dave Franco-The Disaster Artist, the Now You See Me movies and Ed Harris-Westworld_tv, Geostorm.

This is a lesbian love story that kind of reminded me of Thelma & Louise on steroids. Kristen is the daughter of Ed, who owns several businesses, including a gym that Kristen manages. Kristen and Ed do not get along because of Kristen's mother, who disappeared 12 years ago-Kristen thinks Ed had something to do with her leaving. Dave is married to Kristen's sister and is an abusive husband. Katy is passing through town on her way to a bodybuilding competition in Las Vegas and gets a job at one of Ed's other businesses, a gun shooting range. Katy and Kristen-who is a lesbian-get together. It seems that Katy likes men & women, and decides to help Kristen out by taking care of Dave, as a favor-remember, Dave is abusive-but takes it too far. Secrets are uncovered, as the police close in and things get a little weird at the end.

It's rated R for violence, grisly images, language, drug use and sexual content-including nudity-and has a running time of 1 hour & 44 minutes.

It's not one that I would buy on DVD but if you are into bodybuilding, it would be alright to stream.

Gritty World

[diegelj-63837 · 9/10 · 10 May 2024]

Really loved how gritty and diabolical a world this delves into. The atmosphere right from the start is fueled by an undercurrent of criminal behavior. Feels like you could scratch the surface and you'll find an illegal activity or at least a questionable past in each of the characters. Performances by Kristen Stewart, Katy O'Brian, Anya Baryshnikov, James Franco and Ed Harris light up the screen. They're all raw and dented human beings straddling survival, self preservation and looking for some type of connection that's just out of reach. A fascinating microcosm of dreams, betrayal and needs all rolled into a powder keg of a ticking time bomb of escapism.

A pulsating romance thriller

[spencermcook · 6/10 · 21 January 2024]

"Love Lies Bleeding" is endlessly thrilling, unapologetically gruesome, and potently lustful in its perception of love, or in this case, more so in the idea of attachment. Rose Glass immediately develops an identity on a pulsating energy that intensifies as secrets begin to unravel and intertwine with one another, paired with a score that'll find its way beneath your skin. The visual details are addictive. From extreme close up shots enhanced by an accurate, yet sometimes uncomfortable sound design, to a dark red color palette and slower frames of movement to provoke darkness and uneasiness. Due to timely humor and several montage sequences, there's a lighthearted disguise that masks the severity of how exaggerated and ambitious this story actually is. Whether this works or doesn't work is for you to decide, but regardless of how you feel about the story collectively, I'm confident that there's a refreshing surprise for everyone to experience.

The Incredible Hulk Meets Thelma and Louise ....

[kikiclogwyni · 5/10 · 22 April 2024]

.... and none of them live happily ever after.

This film if full of very graphic violence and fairly graphic sex scenes. I wouldn't say either are gratuitous, given that sexual obsession and revenge are central themes of the film, but if you are troubled by either I would give this one a swerve.

The entire feel of this film is gritty and depressing. We first meet Kristen Stewart's character, Lou, with her hand down a feces-filled blocked literal loo. The pragmatist in me immediately wondered why there were no toilet plungers in this part of the American South (New Mexico). However, this was clearly intended to introduce her character as subsumed in the filthy, sweaty, steroid-fueled world of the body-builder.

The first act revolves primarily about her budding relationship with a female body-builder who is just passing through on her way to Vegas, the second act veers off into extreme violence and the third act ..... well that just get weird.

It is not to say this film was not worth seeing - it was - and the performances by the main characters gritty and compelling. But there was such limited character development that, by the end, I didn't really care who died (and it was odds on for a while that everyone would).

Most enjoyable was the cinematography. Here this movie really stood out. The isolated locale of the gym where much of the first act takes place was juxtaposed, with all its fluorescent-lit grime, against a backdrop of gorgeous desert, star-filled skies. But the natural beauty of the surroundings only highlighted the unrelenting dreariness of the lives of the protagonists. You will want a shower after watching this film.

Refreshing take on action thriller

[bmcmullan-27253 · 10/10 · 23 January 2024]

Fantastic movie, great cast. Actors delivered. I left the film asking myself, "is this a new story or have we just ignored queer stories for so long?" I was thrilled to see a movie centered on queer love without the typical tropes of people caring whether the town or family accepted their sexuality. I found myself covering my eyes more than Saltburn at the gore, twists, and energizing perspective on FEMALE POWER. This movie is purposeful in its dialogue and shots. Jam packed with addiction, obsession, and most intriguing, hope. Grab some popcorn, enjoy the desert starry sky and go watch this film!

Love Lies Bleeding

[jboothmillard · 7/10 · 15 May 2024]

The trailer for this grungy-style film looked interesting and good, especially with the cast, and it was getting positive reviews from critics, including Mark Kermode, I was glad when I got the opportunity to see it on the big screen, co-written and directed by Rose Glass (Saint Maud). Basically, set in New Mexico in 1989, Louise "Lou" Langston (Kristen Stewart) is the manager of a gymnasium often pressured by her obsessive lesbian friend Daisy (Anna Baryshnikov) to go on a date. Jaqueline "Jackie" Cleaver (Katy O'Brian) is a bodybuilder who arrives in town and has sex with JJ (Dave Franco) to secure a job at a gun range. Lou visits her sister, Beth (Jena Malone), who has children and suffers domestic abuse from her husband, JJ. Jackie is taken by JJ to the gun range and meets the owner, Lou Sr. (Ed Harris), accepting a job as a waitress. Jackie comes to work out at the gym, and Lou is immediately smitten by her. Jackie tells Lou about the job she has at the shooting range, unaware that the owner is Lou's estranged father. Jackie also tells her that she is making her way to Las Vegas for a bodybuilding competition. Lou offers her steroids, which Jackie initially hesitates but ends up using. The two soon have sex and Jackie asks to stay at Lou's apartment. The pair have dinner with JJ and Beth, and Lou is aware of the abuse. She defends Beth and threatens JJ. In return, JJ tells her that he had sex with Jackie, which angers her. While driving home, Lou forces Jackie out of the car, mentioning she wants JJ dead, but quickly lets her back in when she sees two FBI agents. She is aware that they may be investigating her father who is connected to criminal activities in town. The next day, Beth is hospitalised after JJ has severely beaten her. Lou Sr. Arrives and promises to care for Beth. Jackie has become emotionally unstable from spontaneous substance abuse; she breaks into JJ's home and brutally beats him to death. Lou arrives and is shaken, admitting she did not actually want JJ dead. They roll his corpse into a carpet and drive to the ravine out of town, where Lou used to help her father dispose of the bodies of business rivals. On the way there, Daisy spots them and recognises Jackie is driving Lou's truck. After disposing of the body in the trick and setting it on fire, Lou cleans up evidence of the murder. Jackie continues her steroid addiction and grows more agitated. Following an argument, Jackie hurts Lou headbutting her, then leaves and hitchhikes to Las Vegas. While her individual performance at the competition starts well, Jackie in her steroid-induced psychosis has a panic attack and hallucinates vomiting a fully grown Lou. In reality, she vomits on the stage and runs off in humiliation. When she sees other competitors laughing at her, she viciously attacks them and is arrested. Meanwhile, JJ's truck is found in the ravine, along with several bodies from previous bodies. When Lou arrives home, she runs into Daisy who asks several about Jackie driving JJ's truck. To keep her silent, Lou has sex with Daisy, and they apparently begin a relationship. Lou Sr. Bails Jackie out of jail and coerces her to kill Daisy, the only witness to the murder, giving her a gun. Lou and Daisy are just arriving at her apartment when Jackie shoots Daisy from behind and runs away. Before Lou can do anything, she is forced to hide her body behind the sofa when FBI agents come to question her about JJ. Jackie returns to Lou Sr., only to be knocked unconscious. He calls Lou saying he has Jackie and plans to pin the double homicide on her. Lou threatens to expose her father's operation if he does so, causing him to hang up in a rage. Lou is cleaning up Daisy's body when Lou Sr. Has sent corrupt cop Officer Mike (David DeLao) on his payroll to attack her, but after fighting she manages to shoot him dead. Realising her father wants to kill her, Lou bludgeons the officer with a gun and makes her way to his manor. There, she encounters Beth who has learned about Lou's involvement with JJ's death and attacks her. Lou allows Beth to beat her before Beth stops and gives her Jackie's location. Lou frees Jackie and they embrace and make up. Lou tells her to run while she goes to confront her before he shoots her in the leg. Lou Sr. Reveals to his daughter that her mother is not dead but left due to them, Lou Sr. For his criminal business and Lou for helping him. Jackie arrives, having grown to a gigantic size, being enraged and empowered by her love for Lou. She pins Lou Sr. To the ground and Lou puts a gun in his mouth but she does not fire, leaving him to be arrested by the incoming police. The two girls grow into giants and run together through the clouds in the sky. The next morning, after returning to normal size, Lou and Jackie have hit the road and are driving through the desert. They hear a thumping from the back of the truck, and Lou realises Daisy is still alive. Lou drags her into a nearby field to strangle her to death while Jackie sleeps. Also starring Orion Carrington as O'Riley, Matthew Blood-Smyth as Dave, Keith Jardine as Chester, Jerry G. Angelo as Mikey, Mikandrew as Stoney Owen, and Hilary Fleming as Sharon. Stewart is terrific as the woman at the centre of everything, O'Brian is magnetic as the muscly drifter who falls in love with her, they have fantastic chemistry together, Harris (with his scary hair) is terrific as the creepy criminal father, there is good support from Franco, Malone and Baryshnikov, and director Glass is a great upcoming talent. It is a sizzling story of passion and a gritty drama, the bodybuilding and exercise scenes, as well as the lovemaking moments, are steamy and stylish, and the period detail is splendid, I will admit I found the ending (combining The Incredible Hulk and Attack of the 50 Foot Woman) rather strange, but as an overall film, it is a most watchable romantic crime thriller. Very good!

Average with a ridiculous ending

[rehmankhilji · 4/10 · 26 April 2024]

I anticipate this review might receive some criticism, as all I seem to be encountering are overwhelmingly positive appraisals for the movie. Do I need to be under the influence of something to comprehend it, because the ending struck me as the most absurd thing I've ever witnessed in a film?

First and foremost, Katy O'Brian-wow. She truly left a remarkable impression with her performance in the movie; it was simply splendid.

As for Kristen Stewart, I'll refrain from commenting, as I believe my silence should convey my thoughts adequately.

Overall, the movie is rather average, lacking any cinematic or theatrical elements of note. It fails to provide entertainment or captivate its audience throughout.

Those who manage to endure the entire film are likely to be greatly disappointed.

In conclusion, it falls short of being commendable. That's my verdict.

"Love Lies Bleeding": A Sweaty and Bloody Queer Romance

[jaysonpajaronvistal · 7/10 · 14 May 2024]

After her critically acclaimed directorial debut, Rose Glass returns with "Love Lies Bleeding", a film that marks her status as one of the must-watch directors in contemporary cinema. Rose's sophomore feature is a visceral exploration of love entangled within the violent underbelly of a criminal family, set against the raw backdrop of the bodybuilding world. "Love Lies Bleeding" is an electrifying love story that revolves around the romance between Lou, a reclusive gym manager, and Jackie, an ambitious bodybuilder headed to Vegas to pursue her dream of becoming a bodybuilder champion. Their love story ignites violence when Lou's criminal family background is revealed.

The film's aesthetics set a visually striking tone that captivates the audience's attention right from the opening scene to the end credit. The opening scene alone is a testament to Glass' exceptional vision as a filmmaker, beautifully setting up the narrative that unfolds with both tension and intrigue with sweaty and ripped camera shots. This allows the audience to be in an immersive romantic movie experience, mixing minute amount of body horror elements and action sequences but at its core, it's a powerful queer romantic movie that seems like only Glass can master. Following the noteworthy success of "Saint Maud," Glass was undoubtedly under immense pressure to deliver a compelling follow-up.

The narrative setting of the movie is set in this sweaty gym, that not only serves as a backdrop, but as a character itself---sweaty, pulsating, and visceral. This effectively mirrors the internal turmoil that is contrary to the character's strong external physicality, making the gym environment a crucial element of the story. The cinematography in "Love Lies Bleeding" is exceptional. There are only a few films that rarely utilize camera work that vividly captures the essence of sweat, blood, and body figures, and Glass does it so well in this movie. The camera lingers on the sweat and blood of its characters, capturing the grueling reality of bodybuilding. Each frame in this sweaty gym is filled with rippling bodies and sweat which is a testament to the physicality of the film's setting. The close-up shots of rippling muscles and strained expressions transport viewers directly into the gym, allowing them to feel every drop of sweat and hear every breath. This choice not only enhances the narrative's intensity but also pays homage to 1980s bodybuilding footage, immersing the viewer fully into a world of relentless pursuit of physical perfection. There is where the film stands out, its impressive visual storytelling.

The aesthetics and production design of the movie are deliberately gritty and raw which weaves so well in the narrative thread. The production design pays homage to vintage 80s bodybuilding footage, yet it's filtered through a contemporary lens that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It deliberately avoids the polished and pristine look of many films for something much more gritty, sweaty, and authentic look. This element enriches the visual narrative as it provides a tangible sense of place that is at once inviting and repulsive, mirroring the complicated romance at play within the film's central relationship. This choice not only enhances the authenticity of the setting but also deepens the exploration of the physical and emotional demands of the characters. "Love Lies Bleeding" explores the complexities of love manifested in physical form.

The surprising element of this movie is the touch of body horror without resorting to exploitation, handling its gruesome and horror elements with subtlety. The film balances the elements of romance, body horror, and action meticulously, ensuring the gruesome aspects and action sequences of the movie are served without overpowering the theme of queer romance and sexual desire. This nuanced approach allows the film to delve into the darker sides of human desire without becoming gratuitous.

Kristen Stewart as Lou, delivers a powerhouse performance since "Spencer." Coming off from her critically acclaimed and Oscar-worthy performance in "Spencer," Kristen continues to prove to be one of the finest actresses of her generation. Her portrayal of Lou's intense, and almost instantaneous love for Jackie is compelling and profoundly convincing. Kristen's ability to convey emotion through minimalistic expression and subtle body movement adds a deep layer to her character without being on the nose. However, the real revelation here is Katy O'Brien as Jackie. Katy brings a level of authenticity to the character that not only transcends to the viewers but is also believable due to her prior experience as an ex-bodybuilder. Her physicality and strength are impressive, but it's her vulnerability and emotional language that truly make her a standout and memorable. Katy's performance is a career-defining moment, showcasing her ability to embody both the physical intensity and emotional complexity required by the role. The fact that in an interview, Katy mentioned that she auditioned for the role 6 times before getting the part is insane. There is no other actress that fits the character of Jackie so well than Katy O'Brien.

At its core, "Love Lies Bleeding" is a dark romance infused with action and some elements of body horror marked by a level of gruesome moments that is both shocking and fitting. The film's exploration of queer love story and violence is compelling, with strong performances and a directorial vision that's bold and clever, "Love Lies Bleeding" is definitely one of this year's strongest films. Understandably, the film's unique approach to romance, blended with dark humor and horror might not resonate to most audiences.

In conclusion, through its compelling narrative, stunning visuals, and exceptional performances, the film not only meets the high expectations set by Glass's debut but also sets new standards for what is possible in genre filmmaking. There are moments in the movie that feel jarring and the tonal shifts seem to be abrupt, but once this movie finds its people, it's likely to become a classic cult that will be celebrated as time goes by.

Effective thriller ruined by last 5 mins.

[dweston-38669 · 6 May 2024]

Rose Glass's follow up to Saint Maud is a sweaty,twisty thriller that's reminded me of a mash up of Blood Simple, Bound, Thelma and Louise and Breaking Bad/ Better Call Saul in its depiction of blue collar working class individuals thrown into a nightmare of double dealings, revenge,sex,drugs (with the exception of Bound) all filmed under a sun bleached environment.

Kristen Stewart is excellent in the lead and shows depth and vulnerability, as she did in 'Spencer ' and is fast becoming a solid actor.

Katy O'Brian is dedicated as the pumped up body builder and its good to see Ed Harris again as the scary crime boss (with even scarier hair) Where the film fails is in the stupid last 5mins which is just laughable and utterly stupid (this ruined the film for Laura!) it's like a tacked on fantasy. Was Glass bereft of any other ideas ? Did she deliberately want to add something stupid as a ' breather' for the audience after the bloody events prior. Whatever it is its really weird!

Great cinematography, unrealistic writing

[minifiecw · 6/10 · 24 March 2024]

A24 strikes again!

The cinematography is very good. Great use of lighting and color, and even the editing is excellent. Plus, of course, Ed Harris delivers another fantastic performance.

In spite of these things, the people behind me are chatting and I'm sitting here in the theater writing this. Bottom line is: the writing is bad. Even though it's a cool story, a lot of the characters' behaviors are nonsensical, and the dialogue is just weird, which really takes the audience out of it.

Plus the romantic story arc I think undermines some of the other cool elements of the film-like the world building and strong female leads. In spite of the action and strength the characters portray, it is the love arc that seems very unbelievable and forced, and I feel like I'm watching fan fiction.

Good music tho.

Brilliant crime caper with a compelling love story

[ethanbresnett · 8/10 · 17 May 2024]

After the success of Saint Maud, Rose Glass proves she isn't a one hit wonder with another really impressive film in Love Lies Bleeding.

It is a curious film as it straddles a few genres, but manages them all very well. It intertwines a compelling love story with an engaging crime story, and also introduces some surreal elements which add an intriguing extra layer. In a way the bones of the story feel a little like something the Coen Brothers could conjure up, in the way that it brings kooky characters together with this crime element running through it. Not to say that it is a rip off at all, but just to give an indication of the vibe of the film.

The performances are all terrific. Kristen Stewart once again proves that Twilight will not define her career as she emerges with another brilliant leading performance. Katy O'Brien is a revelation with a great physical performance, and Ed Harris is as always great.

Another great thing about this film is how stylish it is. Not in the conventional way of being shiny and dazzling, but it has a certain crisp class and quality to it that is just really appealing.

Rose Glass is fully on a role with this film, so you should rush to see it and keep an eye on what she turns out next!

Body killer

[Stanlee107 · 7/10 · 11 May 2024]

This film is certainly intriguing. Kristen Stewart (Lou) portrays a character with whom I am unfamiliar. Set in the 1980s, she depicts a gym owner who becomes enamoured with one of her transient members. It exudes a Thelma and Louise vibe, either directly or indirectly.

The narrative encompasses themes of sex, drugs, abuse, and murder, interspersed with humour. Kristen Stewart has transitioned significantly from her Twilight days, much like Robert Pattinson, but she has embraced the indie path.

Anna Baryshnikov shines as Daisy, a diligent bodybuilder ensnared by drugs, love, sex, and a dash of revenge.

The 1980s aesthetic complements the story excellently, and the dark humour is particularly effective. It's evident that this was a passion project for Kristen Stewart.

Neo Noir Romance

[Pairic · 8/10 · 9 May 2024]

Love Lies Bleeding: A much darker version of Drive-Away Dolls, the comedy is sparse and understated in this Neo-Noir Lesbian Romance. Jackie (Katy O'Brian) arrives in Crater New Mexico, she's a bodybuilder, intent on winning a competition in Las Vegas as she drifts from town to town. She soon catches the eye of gym manager Louise (Kristen Stewart). They hit it off after Jackie has a run in with a local bully. Things could be good for both of them except that Jackie has already gotten a job as a waitress at Lou's (Ed Harris) bar and shooting range. Lou is Louise's estranged father who is the local organised crime boss, a big fish in a small town. A further complication is JJ (Dave Franco), Louise's brother in law and lieutenant to Lou. He is also violent towards his wife, something Lou let's slide. But that's not enough, there's also Daisy (Anna Baryshnikov), Louise's ex who can be manipulative and demanding. There are three femmes fatale in this story. Extreme scenes of violence define this film as both Louise and Jackie reveal hidden strengths and psychoses. At times Jackie appears like an avenging angel, Wonder Woman and/or The She Hulk whilst the cooler killer Louise has deeper plans. Will they be a match for Lou who is the very embodiment of evil in a chilling performance by Ed Harris? Oh, there's also a couple of FBI agents sniffing around. All of thus occurs in the Autumn of 1989 as the Berlin Wall falls on TV in the background, local power structures crumble in Crater. Stewart, O'Brian and Baryshnikov are convincing in their different ways as a dangerous menage a trois. Directed by Rose Glass, screenplay by Glass and Weronika Tofilska. 8/10.

Impressive and Original,

[gmod-11662 · 7/10 · 9 May 2024]

"Love Lies Bleeding" is a gripping romantic thriller that explores the dark side of love and crime. Directed by Rose Glass, the film features stellar performances by Kristen Stewart and Katy O'Brian as two women caught up in a dangerous romance.

The atmosphere is tense and suspenseful, drawing viewers into the complex relationship between the reclusive gym manager and an ambitious bodybuilder. However, the ending feels somewhat out of place, disrupting the carefully crafted atmosphere.

The film's representation of female bodybuilding is empowering, with O'Brian delivering an authentic portrayal of a rising athlete. Additionally, the inclusion of LGBTQ+ themes adds depth to the narrative, particularly in the portrayal of Lou's friend Daisy, played by Anna Baryshnikov.

While "Love Lies Bleeding" has moments of edginess, such as a scene involving feet sucking during a sex scene, these may not resonate with all viewers, I know that many people like sucking feet, but lets try to keep it out of the movies. Overall, the film is a compelling thriller deserving of its 7 out of 10 rating, thanks to strong performances, a tense atmosphere, and intriguing themes.

Great movie until the lousy ending

[beoir-43672 · 4/10 · 2 April 2024]

This was a pretty good movie, though it really only showed flashes of why Ed Harris's character is so bad, but then towards the end an innocent woman gets killed, at the ending showdown, it turns absurd, with the final scene being the other protagonist murdering the innocent woman we already thought was dead. So the movie ends with Ed Harris' character left alive but his daughter fleeing (I thought it was only her that could put him away?) and we are left having watched both main characters, whom we are supposed to care about, but try, and one is finally successful, in killing an innocent woman who's only sin was having a crush on one of them. I was sorry that I cared about either one, and I was left just feeling sorry for the poor dead woman.

A fun pulpy thriller

[hayzinj · 9/10 · 9 March 2024]

I was intrigued by the trailer for this film, especially due to the cast, the tone and the fact that it was an A24 film. The film itself has a mysterious energy and tone from the very beginning, felt like a throwback pulp thriller. Definitely delivered on what it set out to do. Kristen, Katy, Anna, Ed and Dave all delivered on their roles. The chemistry between Kristen and Katy is top notch and gives a certain freshness to a lesbian relationship and power dynamic in film. It keeps you right on the edge and then as it starts to unravel it draws you in even more. Honestly I wish that there were more original films like this being made.

another gem from Rose Glass

[ferguson-6 · 7/10 · 13 March 2024]

Greetings again from the darkness. The first feature film from writer-director Rose Glass was delayed almost two years due to COVID, but when SAINT MAUD hit in 2021, we knew immediately she was a filmmaker to watch. Along comes her second feature, co-written with Weronika Tofilska, and as a rare lesbian neo-noir, it's sexy and violent and stylishly filmed ... confirming Glass as one to follow.

To ensure that every viewer knows that glitz and glamour will not be featured, we are introduced to Lou (Kisten Stewart) as her gloved hand is elbow deep in a clogged toilet at the gym she manages. The gym is filled with sweaty bodies pumping iron, and Lou looks on mostly disinterested, save for gym rat Daisy (Anna Baryshnikov, Misha's daughter) who is obsessed with Lou thanks to their previous amorous interactions. Though Daisy is smitten, Lou is clearly disinterested, while being as nice as possible. As one lonely heart looking for love, Lou's eyes light up when she spots drifter Jackie (Katy O'Brian, "The Mandalorian") working out one evening. Jackie is making her way to Las Vegas to compete in a bodybuilding competition, and she and Lou hit it off that first night.

The film is set in the late 1980's in some nowhere town in New Mexico, where nefarious doings are the only path to survival. In fact, the most nefarious of the bunch is Lou's father, Lou Sr (Ed Harris). Sporting shoulder length hair that gives him a "Tales from the Crypt" aura, Lou Sr runs a shooting range, while also running guns across the border, and in an unusual choice for a hobby, he collects live bugs. As the local crime lord, Lou Sr has a favorite spot for dumping the bodies of those who cross him.

One other local scumbag on display here is JJ (Dave Franco), husband to Lou's sister Beth (the great Jena Malone). JJ is a world class wife-beater and the source of much angst for Lou ... this despite Beth's constant willingness to forgive her husband, due to her fear of being alone. JJ is the lowest form of life, and when he puts Beth in the hospital, it sends Lou into emotional turmoil, which in turn forces her new lover Jackie to turn She-Hulk, and flash the dark side from her past.

Just about anything that can go wrong for these folks, does. It's an endless stream of bad luck, bad decisions, and just plain bad; however, it's mesmerizing to watch. We see a four-way battle: guns versus muscles versus love versus inner-strength. Some characters get what they deserve, while others just wallow in the mess. Daisy shows she is not as ditzy as she seems once she gains leverage, yet she also proves she's not as clever as she thinks.

The performances here are quite fun to watch - Stewart, (especially) O'Brian, Harris, Baryshnikov, and Malone are all superb, and bring heft to an already creative and heavy-duty story. The score from Clint Mansell is a perfect fit, and Rose Glass's film bears a slight tonal resemblance to the Coen Brothers' classic BLOOD SIMPLE (1984). As in that one, the characters here often zig when we assume they will zag, and though the final act likely jumps the shark for some viewers, there is so much good here, that it prepares us for Glass's future visions.

In theaters beginning March 15, 2024.

Trippy story that borderlines on surreal then stupid finale

[filmtravel101 · 5/10 · 17 March 2024]

This is one of those type of films that is going to be very controversial as it is a director that has loads of talent yet the script writing is just not up to par.

The acting is very good by all leads with some supporting cast that are marginal but the cinematography and scenes plus music is captivating enough to keep you intrigued. The chemistry between leads are realistic and the lesbian element is not noticeable enough to distract as there is a lot going on in this film.

However the finale is just plain absurd almost borderline bad bizarre like it belongs to another film. It's unfortunate as there was so much wonderful suspense but it went in a direction that was laughable where most in the theatre gasped at the ludicrous image of an Attack of the 50' Giant Steroid Women. Yes it's that kinda crazy so be prepared for a wild ride that's campy and rare to see these days yet not everyone's cup of tea either. I'm looking forward to next film from this director and would like to see her direct someone else script as she reminds one of Refn N - Demon type filmmaker in the rough.

5 stars for Stewart and Malone - but it could have been a 8-9 if not for silly ending.

A Steroid Injected Thriller

[njrmbm · 6/10 · 22 March 2024]

There were a couple of fantastical steroid induced fever dream moments I wish hadn't been there, as I felt they took me out of such a dark and serious thriller, but generally an entertaining movie. Kristen Stewart has come a long way since the Twilight saga. She's proven many times over to be a talented actress. Haven't seen Ed Harris in quite a while. He's one of those actors you could hand a shopping list to and be entertained. A few cool flashbacks soaked in red light didn't hurt the film at all, but as mentioned, a few of the steroid moments went too far for me. Still, I mostly enjoyed this. If you like thrillers, check it out.