Reclusive gym manager Lou falls hard for Jackie, an ambitious bodybuilder headed through town to Las Vegas in pursuit of her dream. But their love ignites violence, pulling them deep into the web o...
I absolutely adored the bold and audacious “Love Lies Bleeding,” director Rose Glass’ sordid story of romance, violence, and redemption. Combining a lesbian love story with a brawny thriller, this gritty, bloody, and brash film was one of my favorites to come out of this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
Lou (Kristen Stewart), a reclusive gym worker who spends her days mopping floors, unclogging toilets, and laminating membership cards, is barely surviving her small-town existence. Her world transforms in an instant when the transient bodybuilder Jackie (Katy O’Brian) crosses her path. Lou falls hard for those rock hard muscles, and she invites Jackie to move in with her. Ambitious to a fault, Jackie begins training for a competition in Las Vegas (and starts injecting steroids at the encouragement of Lou). The plan is for the two to take an epic road trip out West, but a startling act of violence involving Lou’s sister (Jena Malone) and brother-in-law (Dave Franco) changes everything. The truth about Lou’s criminal family is revealed, further complicating not only her romance with Jackie, but pulling both women into a web of absolute mayhem.
Glass has created a film with a deliciously pulpy, crime thriller vibe. Her bold and distinctive style is reflected with a voice that practically screams with an underlying rage and intensity (and one of the best uses of magical realism I’ve ever seen in a movie). Lou and Jackie are flawed people, but you just can’t help rooting for their relationship. They are capable and guilty of some very, very bad things, but goddamn if these two aren’t meant for each other with their explosive love story for the ages.
Stewart and O’Brian deliver stunning performances, embodying their characters with a ferocious spirit that reflects the lust and desire of their tumultuous relationship. Their chemistry is palpable and intense, which lends an additional layer of authenticity to the story. The supporting cast is nothing short of terrific too, with effective turns from Anna Baryshnikov, Ed Harris, Franco, and Malone.
Passionate and provocative, “Love Lies Bleeding” is the type of film that gets under your skin. Beneath the violence and revenge, it’s a queer love story that’s hopelessly and breathlessly romantic.
