Sleeping Beauty (2011) Movie Review
Title: Sleeping Beauty
Director: Julia Leigh
Release Date: December 2, 2011
Genre: Drama, Mystery
Runtime: 101 minutes
Overview
“Sleeping Beauty” is a provocative and visually arresting drama directed by Julia Leigh in her feature film debut. The film stars Emily Browning and delves into the life of a young woman who becomes entangled in a mysterious and disturbing world of high-end eroticism.
Plot Summary
The story follows Lucy (Emily Browning), a university student who takes on a series of odd jobs to make ends meet. Desperate for money, she responds to an unusual job advertisement and is introduced to Clara (Rachael Blake), who runs an exclusive service where young women are sedated and offered to wealthy clients to fulfill their fantasies while the women remain unconscious.
As Lucy becomes more involved in this secretive and unsettling world, she grapples with the psychological and emotional consequences of her actions. Her curiosity about what happens during her periods of unconsciousness grows, leading her to take increasingly risky steps to uncover the truth.
Characters and Performances
- Emily Browning as Lucy: Browning delivers a brave and haunting performance, capturing the complexity of Lucy’s character and her descent into a morally ambiguous and emotionally fraught situation.
- Rachael Blake as Clara: Blake’s portrayal of Clara is both enigmatic and commanding, adding a layer of sophistication and menace to the film’s narrative.
Visuals and Direction
Julia Leigh’s direction is marked by a stark and minimalist visual style, creating a cold and detached atmosphere that mirrors Lucy’s emotional state. The film’s cinematography by Geoffrey Simpson enhances this effect, using carefully composed shots and a muted color palette to emphasize the themes of isolation and objectification.
Themes and Messages
“Sleeping Beauty” explores themes of power, control, and the commodification of the human body. The film raises uncomfortable questions about consent, exploitation, and the nature of desire. It also delves into the psychological impact of detachment and the lengths to which individuals will go to fulfill their needs and curiosities.
Streaming and Rental Options in America
For viewers interested in watching “Sleeping Beauty,” here are the current streaming and rental options available in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
- Hulu: Available for streaming with a subscription.
Conclusion
“Sleeping Beauty” (2011) is a daring and thought-provoking film that challenges viewers with its unsettling premise and stark visual style. Emily Browning’s performance is a standout, bringing depth and vulnerability to a character caught in a morally complex situation.
While the film may not be for everyone due to its explicit content and provocative themes, it offers a unique and uncompromising look at issues of power, consent, and the human condition. For those interested in exploring challenging and artistically ambitious cinema, “Sleeping Beauty” is a film that will provoke thought and discussion.
Explore this intriguing and controversial film on popular streaming platforms, and delve into a story that pushes the boundaries of conventional drama.
