Skincare

Austin Peters' first feature film invites us to enter the world of skin care and a toxic narcissistic environment that is soaked in a pleasant dose of black humor, even when it makes horrible decisions.

It is a journey with ups and downs, but it is delivered by an inspired Elizabeth Banks who shines with her own light and carries on her shoulders, a thriller that in the cunning of her interpretation makes the darkest moments of the film shine; it is not that the film is flawed, it is quite acceptable and becomes pleasant as we enter into the deep intrigue that professes its story. However, there are moments in which the film is somewhat complicated in carrying out the whole journey well to reach its final climax.

The script does a great job of conveying the particularly feminine paranoia of its protagonist, but its plot doesn't quite fit together to keep it constantly on top without making certain decisions noticeable that end up taking away the power that it seems to carry with elegance at times.

Despite the script's limitations, it should not be completely discarded, especially because of the encouraging staging of its director, who demonstrates an elegant handling of visual aesthetics and complements his work with the gratifying photography of Christopher Ripley who manages to immerse this entire journey in a pleasant thriller that at times recalls that eighties style on screen that turns out to be quite gratifying.

A fulfilling film that has its moments that make it worthy of a chance.

Greetings again from the darkness. Billed as "a fictional story inspired by true events", the film pretty obviously draws from the 2014 case where aesthetician Dawn DaLouise was accused of plotting the murder of rival Gabriel Suarez. This is the first feature film from music video director Austin Peters, who co-wrote the script with Sam Freilich and Deering Regan (all first-time screenwriters). Although there is some entertainment value here, the inexperience of the filmmakers shines through, leaving us wishing for a bit more heft.

The very talented Elizabeth Banks stars as Hope Goldman. It's 2013 Los Angeles, and after a year of treating the stars to facials, Hope is on the verge of rolling out her own line of facial products. Her financial backer has recently deserted her, causing stress ... but nothing like the stress Hope is about to experience.

A lot happens very fast. Hope tapes a segment for a local TV talk show hosted by Nathan Fillion. Angel (Luis Gerardo Mendez) opens an anti-aging salon directly across from Hope's shop. One of her clients introduces her to Jordan (Lewis Pullman), a Life Coach who has just moved to town. Hope's assistant, Marine (Michaela Jae Rodriguez), acts as her assistant and 'publicity manager', and reacts as strongly as Hope when a vicious online hack attack goes beyond the business and into the realm of personal, jeopardizing the business and Hope's reputation.

The supporting cast includes John Billingsley, Wendie Malick, Ella Balinska, and Jesse Salor, and we can't help but notice the too-frequent segments featuring over-the-top acting ... perhaps in an effort to spice up the messy story. There is a definite 1980's cable movie vibe to this one, exacerbated by the overbearing music employed to heighten tension. We recognize the themes here with Ms. Banks' character frantically grasping for fame, protecting her reputation, and fearing her dreams may be shattered - all while believing a rival is sabotaging her. Of course, we know early on what's happening, and it's frustrating when a smart businesswoman is so oblivious. There is enough to watch here, but it certainly needed more to be the thriller it wants to be.

Opening in theaters August 16, 2024.

This 2024 film directed by Austin Peters states in its opening credits that it: inspired by true events. Title cards dissolved into a television interview in process with the main protagonist: "Hope Goldman".

The whole narrative is a good, stylish portrayal of narcissism and told through the gaze of "Goldman", a Hollywood "facialist" (skin treatment for celebrities). A new business for alternative skin treatment shows up across the street but for "Goldman", this is not good for business.

Rest of the film's story revolves around social media mistreatment and "cancelling"; professional reputations with many involved. Supporting roles like "Goldman"; public relations specialist, "Marine" played by Michaela Antonia Jaé Rodriguez from "Rent" musical fame plus a cameo of Wendy Malick (from 90s TV "Just Shoot Me" sitcom).

Banks is a strong lead but what's interesting is Peters's micro camera shots of skincare products, giving a late night "informercial" vibe! It also reminds one of product placement happening throughout the whole film.

Visually this film really does its best to showcase Hollywood's craze for vanity, narcissism but suggesting its celebrity culture. Taking on a comedic knee jerk at ego competition and the beauty industry via social media hype/self-marketing references.

This black comedy definitely takes an artistic licence focused on skincare treatments and products - maybe commenting on its non-regulated aspects?. Coming out at the right resently where "skin influencers" are running amok on social media and being criticized. In some cases targeting communities that shouldn't be worried about ageing.

Recently real-life skincare guru, Dawn DaLuise has come out in the media about how this film discredits her lived experience. Da Luise was a controversy amongst Hollywood's beauty industry about years ago. According to media outlets, DaLuise was accused of trying to arrange a hit on another competitive skin treatment business owner. That she supposedly is working on her own documentary - maybe these true events influence this movie production.

This isn't the most complicated or intellectual thriller out there but it was surprisingly entertaining and enjoyable. I had seen a few negative soundbites out there, but there wasn't much in general given I saw one of the first screenings and I was trying to avoid reading much before watching. The soundtrack was great, some scenes had great camera play, and the way the story revolved around a small handful of characters was great -- the writing was good enough but the acting/characters was well done. Some things were very predictable but there were smaller twists and turns that made it fun. The only major irritation, common in some thrillers, was the outrageous stupidity/recklessness of the main chsracter, with some particularly dumb actions/writing. Not a must see by any means but fun and interesting enough to add to your list.

Was this in theaters? It looks and feel like a made-for-streaming movie. Banks looks great in the movie, and... that's about it.

The plot is bland, very predictable, Nothing much to do with skincare, this could have been about fashion, cakes, anything really.

They could have done something smart like having a toxic skincare product or something like that but no.

The villains are a joke and the main character (Banks) is not very smart, or at least not acting like one. The only good trick she pulled is with that TV anchor.

Presumably, based on a true story, but if its linear and boring who cares if its true? Make it interesting at least.

There is nothing at the end of what happened to the real people, so for all intent and purpose this could just as well be made up.

Anyway, if you're into Elizabeth Banks and skin products you might endure this move for 1.5 hrs, but the rest should stay away, seriously not worth your $$ even for streaming.

Exact score: 51 / 100.