In the flawed pop-culture satire ‘Opus,’ director Mark Anthony Green skewers celebrity culture with satire and social commentary, but falls short in developing its characters and conveying its message.
In Mark Anthony Green‘s feature directorial debut, ‘Opus,’ the cult of celebrity is skewered with satire and social commentary. Starring John Malkovich as the charismatic pop idol Moretti, the film takes aim at exceptionalism, false meritocracy, and the attention economy that drives our society.
Celebrity culture has undergone significant changes throughout history.
In ancient Greece and Rome, public figures like philosophers and politicians were idolized by the masses.
The modern concept of celebrity emerged in the 19th century with the rise of vaudeville and music halls.
Today, social media platforms have amplified celebrity influence, making it easier for fans to connect with their favorite stars.
According to a survey, over 70% of Americans follow celebrities on social media, highlighting the profound impact of celebrity culture on modern society.
Behind the Curtain: A Glimpse into Moretti’s World
A Ariel Eckton (Ayo Edebiri), a young journalist working for a prominent pop culture magazine, is invited to preview Moretti‘s first album in decades. As she delves deeper into the cult-like world of the reclusive pop idol, she begins to uncover ‘the dark secrets behind his secluded compound.’ The film features a talented ensemble cast, including Juliette Lewis, Murray Bartlett, and Amber Midthunder.
However, beyond the surface-level descriptions of the characters, their motivations and backstories remain woefully underdeveloped. This lack of specificity renders the guests as avatars for the media forms they represent, rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. As a result, ‘the mysterious fates that befall them one by one have little impact on the narrative.’
The Charisma Conundrum
John Malkovich‘s portrayal of Moretti is a jarring mismatch. His charisma, which could have been convincing as a soft-spoken ‘genius’ cult leader, falls flat in his role as the universally beloved, chart-topping icon. ‘The film’s attempt to lean into absurdity, drawing comparisons to live-action Jack Skellington, ultimately doesn’t quite work.’
Pop culture satire uses humor, irony, and ridicule to comment on current events, social issues, and cultural phenomena.
It often critiques societal norms, politics, and media, making it a powerful tool for commentary.
Satirical works can take many forms, including comedy sketches, films, literature, and even music.
Notable examples include South Park's irreverent style and The Onion's satirical news headlines.
A Condemnation of Exceptionalism
Despite its missteps, ‘Opus‘ remains a condemnation of the cult of personality and exceptionalism. Through Moretti‘s cult, Levelism, the film posits a culture in which ordinary people willingly submit or torture themselves to discover and celebrate the exceptional. ‘This logic is rooted in the notion that those who have found fame and fortune naturally want to support others who are perceived as special.’
However, this message is not effectively conveyed through the narrative. The film’s pacing and plot twists fail to build suspense, making shocking events feel like afterthoughts rather than carefully crafted reveals. As a result, ‘the satire falls flat, leaving the viewer disappointed rather than enlightened.’
Satire in film uses irony, sarcasm, and ridicule to critique societal norms, politics, and cultural values.
It often employs humor and exaggeration to make pointed commentary on current events.
The genre has been a staple of cinema since the early 20th century, with films like 'Dr. Strangelove' (1964) and 'Network' (1976) pushing boundaries and sparking conversations.
According to a study by the American Film Institute, satirical films have consistently ranked among the greatest films of all time, demonstrating their impact on popular culture.
A Missed Opportunity
‘Opus‘ has all the ingredients of a thought-provoking social satire: a timely commentary on celebrity culture, a talented cast, and a unique premise. However, its failure to find its groove is a major disappointment. Despite its occasional flashes of humor and shock value, the film ultimately falls short as a satirical thriller. With further development and refinement, ‘Opus‘ could have been a powerful exploration of our society’s obsession with celebrity and exceptionalism. As it stands, it remains a missed opportunity.
