Look Away (2018) Movie Review: A Dark Psychological Thriller
Look Away (2018), directed by Assaf Bernstein, is a psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of identity and self-perception. Starring Mira Sorvino, India Eisley, and Jason Isaacs, the film presents a chilling narrative about a teenage girl who confronts her darker side. Adapted from the novel “The Devil’s Advocate” by Andrew Neiderman, Look Away offers a blend of psychological tension and dramatic storytelling.
In this review, we’ll explore the plot, performances, themes, and where you can stream Look Away online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Dark Reflection
Look Away centers around Maria (India Eisley), a high school student who feels isolated and alienated from her peers and family. Her life takes a dark turn when she encounters a sinister mirror image of herself, known as The Other Maria. This doppelgänger begins to influence her life in disturbing ways, leading to a series of unsettling events.
As Maria’s relationship with her reflection grows more intense, she starts to experience dramatic changes in her behavior and interactions with others. The Other Maria manipulates her, driving her to confront her deepest fears and darkest desires. The film explores themes of identity, self-loathing, and the struggle to maintain one’s sense of self amidst external pressures.
The tension escalates as Maria’s life spirals out of control, and she must confront the reality of her dual nature and the consequences of her actions. The film’s plot twists and psychological tension create a gripping and unsettling narrative.
Performances: India Eisley Leads the Way
India Eisley delivers a compelling performance as Maria, portraying a character who is both vulnerable and tormented. Eisley’s ability to convey the psychological and emotional turmoil of Maria adds depth to the film, making her struggle with The Other Maria both believable and engaging.
Mira Sorvino plays Maria’s mother, Catherine, bringing a sense of emotional complexity to the role. Sorvino’s performance adds a layer of nuance to the film, highlighting the strained mother-daughter relationship and the challenges of understanding a troubled adolescent.
Jason Isaacs appears as Dr. Wright, a therapist who becomes involved in Maria’s life. Isaacs’ portrayal adds a touch of mystery and authority, contributing to the film’s psychological tension and the exploration of therapeutic boundaries.
The supporting cast also includes Cameron Monaghan and Penelope Mitchell, whose performances add additional layers to the film’s narrative and character dynamics.
Themes and Psychological Depth: Identity and Self-Perception
Look Away delves into themes of identity, self-perception, and the nature of evil. The film’s central concept of a doppelgänger represents the darker aspects of Maria’s psyche, exploring the idea that our inner demons can manifest in ways that challenge our sense of self.
The film examines how external pressures and personal insecurities can lead to internal conflict and self-destructive behavior. Maria’s interactions with The Other Maria symbolize the struggle to reconcile different aspects of her identity and confront the darker sides of her personality.
Additionally, Look Away explores the impact of psychological trauma and the difficulty of maintaining a stable sense of self in the face of overwhelming internal and external challenges. The film’s portrayal of these themes is both unsettling and thought-provoking, offering a psychological depth that adds to the overall tension of the story.
Visual Style and Direction: A Dark and Atmospheric Thriller
Director Assaf Bernstein creates a dark and atmospheric film with a focus on psychological tension and suspense. The film’s visual style reflects its themes, with moody lighting, eerie cinematography, and a color palette that enhances the sense of foreboding.
The use of mirrors and reflections is a key element in the film’s visual storytelling, symbolizing the duality of Maria’s character and the psychological conflict at the heart of the narrative. The film’s aesthetic choices contribute to its overall sense of unease and psychological intensity.
The pacing of the film is deliberate, allowing the tension to build gradually and create a sense of suspense. The narrative’s twists and turns keep viewers engaged, though some critics noted that the film’s psychological depth may not be fully realized in its execution.
Reception and Critique: A Mixed Response
Look Away received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While some praised the film’s concept and performances, others felt that its execution did not fully live up to its potential. The film holds a 43% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting a range of opinions on its effectiveness as a psychological thriller.
Critics often highlighted the film’s intriguing premise and strong performances, particularly by India Eisley. However, some reviews noted that the film’s pacing and resolution were not as impactful as they could have been, affecting the overall reception.
Where to Watch Look Away (2018) Online in America
If you’re interested in watching Look Away, you can find it on the following platforms:
1. Amazon Prime Video
Look Away is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically start at $3.99 for HD, and the purchase price is around $12.99.
2. Apple TV
Apple TV offers Look Away for rent at $3.99 or purchase for $12.99 in HD. It’s a convenient option for those using Apple devices.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
You can rent or purchase Look Away on Google Play Movies & TV, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase prices at $12.99. The film is available in HD.
4. Vudu
Vudu provides Look Away for rental at $3.99 or purchase at $12.99. The film is available in HD and can be streamed on various devices.
5. Hulu
At the time of writing, Look Away is not available for streaming on Hulu. Check periodically for any updates on availability.
Conclusion: A Chilling Exploration of Identity
Look Away (2018) is a dark psychological thriller that offers a chilling exploration of identity and self-perception. With strong performances, particularly from India Eisley, and a moody visual style, the film presents an unsettling narrative about confronting one’s darker side.
Available on several streaming platforms and rental services, Look Away provides a thought-provoking and suspenseful viewing experience for fans of psychological thrillers. While the film received mixed reviews, its exploration of psychological themes and its atmospheric style make it a compelling watch for those interested in the genre.
