The Neon Demon (2016)

Step into the dazzling and sinister world of "The Neon Demon," a hypnotic psychological horror film directed by Nicolas Winding Refn. Set in the vibrant and cutthroat fashion industry of Los Angeles, the movie explores the dark underbelly of beauty, obsession, and the price of fame. Jesse, a young and aspiring model with an ethereal allure, arrives in L.A. with dreams of stardom. As she navigates the treacherous world of modeling, she quickly becomes the object of desire and envy among her fellow models and industry insiders. However, beneath the glamorous surface lies a malevolent force that feeds on the beauty and innocence of those consumed by their own ambition. As Jesse's star rises, she becomes entangled in a surreal and nightmarish spiral of jealousy, manipulation, and violence. "The Neon Demon" delves into the depths of obsession and the lengths people will go to preserve their own beauty and relevance in an industry that thrives on exploitation. Refn's visionary direction infuses the film with striking visuals, a pulsating soundtrack, and a dreamlike atmosphere that immerses viewers in a neon-lit nightmare. With a standout performance by Elle Fanning as Jesse and a supporting cast that includes Jena Malone, Bella Heathcote, and Keanu Reeves, the film explores themes of youth, sexuality, and the destructive power of narcissism. "The Neon Demon" is a visually stunning and unsettling cinematic experience that challenges societal expectations of beauty and examines the dark side of our obsession with appearance. It's a haunting exploration of the commodification of youth and the perils that lie beneath the glossy surface of the fashion industry. Brace yourself for a mesmerizing journey into a world where innocence is devoured, and the pursuit of perfection becomes a chilling descent into madness.
• Tags: photographers, obsession, swimming, murders, modeling, cannibalism, lighthearted