Velvet Buzzsaw (2019): A Dark, Satirical Horror That Cuts Deep
“Velvet Buzzsaw” (2019) is a unique blend of horror and satire, taking a critical look at the contemporary art world. Directed by Dan Gilroy, this film offers a visually striking and thought-provoking narrative that combines dark humor with supernatural terror.
Introduction
“Velvet Buzzsaw” (2019), directed by Dan Gilroy, is a darkly satirical horror film that delves into the pretentious and cutthroat world of contemporary art. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, and Zawe Ashton, the film critiques the commodification of art while delivering chilling supernatural scares. This review covers the plot, performances, direction, and the film’s impact on both the horror and satire genres. Additionally, we’ll discuss where you can stream “Velvet Buzzsaw” in America.
Plot Summary
The film centers around Morf Vandewalt (Jake Gyllenhaal), a highly influential and eccentric art critic, and his close circle of artists, gallery owners, and collectors in Los Angeles. The plot kicks into motion when Josephina (Zawe Ashton), an ambitious art gallery employee, discovers a treasure trove of mesmerizing and unsettling paintings by a deceased, unknown artist named Vetril Dease.
As these haunting works gain immense popularity and commercial success, the people profiting from them start to experience horrific, supernatural events. It becomes evident that the vengeful spirit of Dease has imbued his creations with a deadly curse, targeting those who exploit art for greed and vanity.
Stellar Performances
Jake Gyllenhaal as Morf Vandewalt
Jake Gyllenhaal delivers a standout performance as Morf Vandewalt, balancing the character’s pretentiousness with a deepening sense of dread as the supernatural events unfold. Gyllenhaal’s portrayal is both humorous and chilling, capturing the complexities of a man whose life is dictated by art criticism.
Rene Russo as Rhodora Haze
Rene Russo plays Rhodora Haze, a ruthless gallery owner and former punk rocker. Russo’s performance exudes confidence and menace, embodying a character who is unapologetically driven by profit and prestige.
Zawe Ashton as Josephina
Zawe Ashton brings depth to Josephina, whose discovery of Dease’s art sets the plot in motion. Her portrayal captures the ambition and moral conflicts of a character navigating the treacherous art world.
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast, including Toni Collette as Gretchen and John Malkovich as Piers, provide strong performances that enhance the film’s darkly comedic and eerie atmosphere. Each character represents different facets of the art industry, contributing to the film’s satirical critique.
Direction and Cinematography
Dan Gilroy’s direction masterfully blends horror with satire, creating a film that is both visually striking and thematically rich. His ability to balance dark humor with genuine scares ensures that “Velvet Buzzsaw” maintains its edge throughout. Gilroy’s critique of the art world’s superficiality and greed is sharp and incisive.
Cinematographer Robert Elswit captures the sleek, glossy aesthetic of the art world with precision. The film’s visual style, characterized by vibrant colors and stark contrasts, reflects the polished yet hollow nature of the characters’ lives. The haunting imagery of Dease’s paintings is rendered with an unsettling beauty that enhances the horror elements.
Themes and Symbolism
“Velvet Buzzsaw” explores themes of artistic integrity, the commodification of creativity, and the consequences of greed. The film critiques how art can be stripped of its meaning and exploited for financial gain, with Dease’s cursed paintings serving as a metaphor for the destructive power of true artistic expression when manipulated by profiteers.
Special Effects and Makeup
The special effects and makeup in “Velvet Buzzsaw” are effectively used to create disturbing and memorable horror sequences. The supernatural manifestations of Dease’s curse are visually arresting and contribute to the film’s eerie atmosphere. The deaths of the characters are crafted with a blend of dark humor and visceral horror, emphasizing the film’s satirical tone.
Music and Sound Design
The film’s score, composed by Marco Beltrami and Buck Sanders, complements its eerie and satirical nature. The music enhances the tension and dark humor, while the sound design accentuates the supernatural occurrences, creating a sense of unease that permeates the film.
Critical Reception
“Velvet Buzzsaw” received mixed to positive reviews from critics. While some praised its bold satire and unique blend of horror and humor, others felt it was uneven in tone. Despite the divided opinions, the film has been appreciated for its originality, strong performances, and sharp critique of the art world.
Personal Insights
Watching “Velvet Buzzsaw” offers a unique and thought-provoking experience. The film’s ability to merge horror with satire in a visually compelling way makes it stand out. Jake Gyllenhaal’s performance and the film’s critique of the art industry’s pretentiousness and greed provide both entertainment and food for thought.
Streaming Availability in America
For those interested in watching “Velvet Buzzsaw,” the film is available on several streaming platforms in America. You can find it on:
Streaming Services:
- Netflix: Available for streaming with a subscription.
Conclusion
“Velvet Buzzsaw” (2019) is a darkly satirical horror film that delivers both chills and laughs. Directed by Dan Gilroy and featuring a stellar cast led by Jake Gyllenhaal, the film critiques the art world’s obsession with profit and prestige while providing a unique and visually striking narrative. Whether you’re a fan of horror, satire, or both, “Velvet Buzzsaw” offers a captivating and thought-provoking viewing experience.
FAQs
Is “Velvet Buzzsaw” based on a true story?
No, the film is a work of fiction that satirizes the contemporary art world.
Who directed “Velvet Buzzsaw”?
The film was directed by Dan Gilroy.
Where can I stream “Velvet Buzzsaw” in America?
The film is available for streaming on Netflix.
What are the main themes of “Velvet Buzzsaw”?
The film explores themes of artistic integrity, the commodification of creativity, and the consequences of greed.
Is “Velvet Buzzsaw” worth watching?
Yes, for fans of horror and satire, “Velvet Buzzsaw” offers a unique and engaging experience with strong performances and a sharp critique of the art world.
Who stars in “Velvet Buzzsaw”?
The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Morf Vandewalt, Rene Russo as Rhodora Haze, and Zawe Ashton as Josephina, among others.
