Though it may not have been one of our most anticipated movies of 2023, Infinity Pool certainly seemed an interesting prospect. Written and directed by Brandon Cronenberg (son of the legendary David Cronenberg), the film stars Alexander Skarsgård, Mia Goth, Cleopatra Coleman, and Thomas Kretschmann. A combination of conceptual horror, striking visuals, and a hint of science fiction, it’s a film that’s likely to live long in the memory.
Infinity Pool‘s story follows novelist James (Skarsgård) and his wife Em (Coleman) as they attempt to revitalize their struggling marriage in a small resort town in the fictional country of Li Tolqa. While there, they meet another couple, and soon discover an odd legal quirk which leads to James being forced to witness his own execution. Gabi (Goth) then entices James into a dangerous new lifestyle of murder tourism, and the novelist finds himself slipping ever deeper into dark obsession.
In many ways, Infinity Pool is a perfect example of the art of horror movies. It has it all: symbolism, existential themes, gratuitous violence and sexuality. Unfortunately, it comes up short in many key areas, and that only serves to hurt the finished film.
Infinity Pool Has Appropriate Depth, But Languishes Under An Excess Of Symbolism
Infinity Pool‘s story revolves around the creation of clones and the thrill that wealthy tourists find in watching their own demise. The symbolic nature of this is fairly clear: it comments on the lack of consequences for those capable of buying their way out of trouble, and how living an existence without morals ultimately chips away at the essence of humanity. There’s also a theme of self-destruction that runs throughout, as is heavily explored through the visual and conceptual ideas of the film.
In all honesty, Infinity Pool is a little heavy-handed. It’s a film that ultimately lacks subtlety: it gleefully shocks and confuses as it unwinds, asserting a sense of superiority that isn’t entirely justified. Though it’s well-acted by its talented cast and its visuals are expertly realized, it simply doesn’t execute its ideas with any semblance of finesse. It’s a blunt instrument, and it delights in twisting its own boundaries until it’s unclear exactly what it was intended to achieve.
In many ways, Infinity Pool‘s story is a truly excellent concept. Unfortunately, the slightly rushed ambiguity of its final act lets it down, and it all but collapses under the weight of its own heavy symbolism. It’s an unforgettably interesting film, but it lacks just enough in its execution to ever be considered in especially high regard.
Rating: 65%
Summary: Infinity Pool manages to be interesting and conceptually horrifying, but it’s out to shock rather than intrigue and lacks the charisma to carry it off with any gusto.
Highlight: The second act reveal of Gabi’s true nature is dark and shocking, and Mia Goth’s ability to both charm and horrify is truly astounding.