Bad Behaviour (2023) Movie Review

Bad Behaviour Summary In her first shot at directing a standout film, Alice Englert, daughter of renowned director Jane Campion, aimed for something extraordinary. To bring her vision to life, she wisely picked Jennifer Connelly as the lead, and Connelly delivered a stellar performance, showcasing her impressive acting skills. The film also features Ben Whishaw, whose strong presence in the first half adds another layer to the movie.

Englert, having acting in her genes, faced a new challenge as a director. Crafting a script for her debut required careful consideration, especially with such a diverse ensemble cast. It's a testament to her artistic growth that she successfully navigated this challenge.

The heart of the film revolves around the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship. While this is a personal theme for Englert, the press release clarified that the movie isn't directly about her own relationship with her mother. Instead, it draws inspiration from the spiritual retreats Englert attended with her mother over the years. This insight into the director's creative process highlights how she weaves personal experiences into a structured narrative.

The film isn't a random assortment of memories; rather, it serves as a learning curve for those who take a leap of faith, investing deeply in their most cherished relationships. In analyzing "Bad Behaviour," we see it as more than just a movie – it's a reflection of the director's journey and an exploration of the bonds that matter most in life.

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Bad Behaviour (2023) Movie Review

Alice Englert, known for her acting roles in shows like Dangerous Liaisons and Top of the Lake: China Girl, has stepped into the director's chair for her latest film, showcasing her talent beyond acting. Her keen eye for visuals and skill in working with actors have solidified her position as a filmmaker. Despite the film's unconventional nature, its unique voice and dark humor are likely to resonate with audiences who appreciate its distinctiveness.

Filmed entirely in the scenic landscapes of New Zealand, the best movie captures the beauty of both the retreat and its setting, thanks to cinematographer Matt Henley. The satirical scenes at the retreat, featuring Jennifer Connelly and Ben Whishaw, skillfully balance comedy and drama.

The film's story could have neatly wrapped up with the end of the retreat, creating a well-structured short film. However, Englert expands the narrative to follow the main character, Dylan, through experiences on a troubled film set, including an affair and a work-related injury. Notably, Jane Campion, Englert's real-life mother and a director herself, makes a brief appearance as a doctor. The latter part of the film, however, feels somewhat disjointed, lacking a clear direction, even though Connelly's captivating portrayal remains a highlight.

The characters of Lucy and Dylan, though not naturally connected, both have a tendency for misbehavior despite their fundamentally good nature. The addition of Dasha Nekrasova as a model adds comedic chaos to the story. Lucy, a former child actress, becomes increasingly irritated with Beverly, the model receiving VIP treatment.

The film takes an unexpected turn when the retreat participants engage in role-playing. Lucy, playing the baby, tells Beverly, playing the mother, that her mother should kill herself. Misunderstandings arise, leading to a tense situation. Later, Lucy's erratic behavior at the film set results in a police car escort. Meanwhile, Dylan, a professional stuntwoman, faces her own challenges, including a romantic relationship and a potentially dangerous stunt gone wrong.

As the story unfolds, the film weaves together different threads, exploring the complexities of relationships and personal struggles. The unexpected twists and character dynamics keep the audience engaged, even though the latter part of the film may lack a cohesive direction. Overall, the movie offers a unique blend of dark humor, satire, and exploration of human behavior.