SXSW Movie Reviews: Gemini
Lola Kirke first caught my eye in Noah Baumbach’s 2015 indie-comedy, Mistress America. Even standing alongside the versatile indie starlet, Greta Gerwig, from scene to scene, Kirke’s performance jumps off the screen and immediately commands your attention. The same can be said for her latest work in Aaron Katz’s new L.A. mystery, Gemini, which completely reaffirms that Lola Kirke is an emerging star.
Jill (Kirke) is a personal assistant and best friend to her famed Hollywood-celebrity boss, Heather Anderson (Zoe Kravitz). Throughout the course of the day, Heather’s odd behavior ultimately makes mortal enemies out of her now ex-boyfriend, and a filmmaker whom she leaves hanging out to dry. Therefore, when Jill returns to the actress’ home the next day and finds her dead body on the floor, she becomes the lead detective’s (John Cho) number one suspect in a sea of possible murderers, prompting her to manipulate her appearance and dig deeper into the mystery herself.
Aaron Katz delivers another fine piece of filmmaking with his latest feature, Gemini. Katz’s direction continues to embolden itself with every subsequent project. It’s been an absolute pleasure to watch his progression as both a writer and filmmaker, which culminates into this new career-best effort thanks to brilliant performances and a clever screenplay that help propel his overall vision. Leading star Lola Kirke possesses a hypnotic ability as a performer, one that takes you on her chaotic journey through Katz’s smartly written murder mystery. Zoe Kravitz also provides an exceptional supporting turn by molding a complex and conflicted character. Gemini swiftly navigates through a bleak Los Angeles backdrop, disjoint from all the glamour and glitz of Tinsel Town, in order to tell a unique story. And despite the film’s mildly unsatisfying finale which leaves a little to be desired, this twist-filled “whodunit” tale still proves to be completely worth the ride.
GRADE: 4/5
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