“Skincare”: An Engaging Thriller with a Nostalgic Nod to the 90’s and the Dawn of the Internet Age

“Skincare” is a thriller movie starring Elizabeth Banks. With Lewis Pullman, Nathan Fillion and Mj Rodriguez. It is directed by Austin Peters.

“Skincare” is a thriller steeped in irony, especially in its aesthetic choices. Starring the ever-charming Elizabeth Banks, this film transports us back to the vibrant streets of Los Angeles in the 1990s, a time when the internet was emerging as a groundbreaking social phenomenon. The movie delves into the origins of influencers and various subcultures that the internet has since spawned.

Plot

Hope Goldman is an ambitious beautician struggling to keep her business afloat. Adding to her woes, her fiercest competitor sets up shop next door and lands a coveted TV interview, further overshadowing Hope’s efforts. As if this weren’t enough, strange occurrences begin to plague her email account, setting off a chain of events that unravel her life.

About the Film

While “Skincare” carries moral undertones, it stops short of being overtly moralistic. The script excels in delving into the characters’ psyches, making them relatable in their moments of desperation and vulnerability. It masterfully justifies their actions, weaving a narrative of desperate decisions in desperate times.

Moreover, “Skincare” skillfully leverages the aesthetics of the 90s, taking us back to the roots of today’s internet chaos. The hacking of an email account becomes the catalyst that sets everything in motion. The protagonist’s ambition and the pervasive desperation of her environment are palpable throughout the film. The film is rife with irony in every scene, blending thriller elements with a touch of comedy, and cleverly parodying the television thrillers, aesthetics, and characters of that era.

Austin Peters, the director, does an admirable job, crafting a noteworthy thriller filled with irony. He is supported by a stellar performance from Lewis Pullman, who delivers an impeccable portrayal of a psychotic character. However, the film truly belongs to Elizabeth Banks, who once again takes on a challenging role and makes it deeply resonant for the audience.

Our Opinion

“Skincare” is an old-fashioned thriller brimming with essence and irony. It may not be a contender for major film awards, but it marks an impressive directorial debut for Austin Peters and showcases another commendable performance by Elizabeth Banks. The film captures the spirit of the 90s and the nascent internet era, offering a nostalgic yet fresh cinematic experience.