Helter Skelter

"I tried watching but got very bored at certain points. The movie seemed to be dragged for way longer than what it should’ve. I also did not understand the meaning of the movie or the underlaying message-maybe I didn’t watch it right. Was kinda like the substance. "

"It’s a visual marvel. Slow in plot and doesn’t exactly nail home deeper themes, but I’m a sucker for any lesson about the dangers of vanity & beauty excess. Great performance from the lead Erika Sawajiri and awesome to see the beautiful Kiko Mizuhara cast as well "

"cant lie this movie sucked simply because it was way too long. other than that it was pretty okay it just dragged on forever "

"Shocktober 2024: You've probably seen something with a similar plot to this movie before. The first half is basically exactly what one might think of if I were to say it's a thriller criticizing Japanese beauty standards and celebrity culture. But it is absurdly beautiful. The way the movie is lit and how it uses color and movement is all fantastic. The performance by Erika Sawajiri is great too. Then the second half picks up a lot more even more interesting visuals and weird story beats. The whole thing feels very comic booky in a way that I absolutely love. Which makes sense since it was apparently based on a Manga."

"visually, this movie was stunning. like i was literally stunned. it’s not the most feminist movie, but a thrilling watch. graphic sex but almost no gore. the ending kind of ruins it for me though, feels like an unnecessary final gotcha. Recommend for casual likers of Perfect Blue and Black Swan."

"This is one of my favorites of the past 5 years, a hidden gem that deals with fame in disturbing and interesting ways. "

"this movie is beautiful VISUALLY. on the other hand, as a whole… the writing is godawful. i really wanted to enjoy this one but i was just waiting for it to end the whole time. lilico ******* sucks. hada deserves better"

"Fantastic."

"I feel like Perfect Blue (1997) is quite similar to this movie, definitely recommend if you haven't seen it! It's animated and the plot is a lot less linear, but it also centres an "idol" who is kind of falling from grace & dealing with crazy stuff in both their careers and personal lives + psychological horror elements. Two of my favourites of all time :)"