In her first feature as a director, Zoë Kravitz sought to explore power dynamics that have been present for millennia, aiming to evoke themes as timeless as the Garden of Eden. Speaking with IndieWire, Kravitz revealed that her new film, Blink Twice, emerged from a deeply instinctual and emotional process rather than a premeditated plan. The project, which she began writing in 2017, is a reflection on power and the oppression of women—topics she describes as “ancient” and fundamental to human history.
Kravitz shared that her journey to bring Blink Twice to the screen was not directly influenced by contemporary movements like #MeToo, though the film’s themes resonate with the ongoing conversations around power imbalances. Instead, she emphasized that these issues have existed long before they became a focal point in modern discourse, describing them as “the most basic things in the world.”
The film, which stars Naomi Ackie as a woman named Frida who becomes entangled in a disturbing island vacation orchestrated by billionaire Slater King (played by Channing Tatum), reflects Kravitz’s interest in isolating characters to delve into these deep-rooted power dynamics. Despite the narrative’s thematic similarities to the #MeToo movement, Kravitz clarified that her work wasn’t inspired by any specific real-world events or figures, such as Jeffrey Epstein. Instead, she intended the film to serve as a broader metaphor for the abuse of power, whether it occurs in high-profile scenarios or everyday life.
Kravitz also opened up about her collaboration with co-writer E.T. Feigenbaum, noting that their creative partnership began well before their work on High Fidelity. Together, they developed the script in a way that allowed the story to evolve in response to cultural shifts while maintaining its core message.
Channing Tatum, who plays against type as Slater King, also served as a producer on the film. Kravitz praised Tatum for his business acumen and understanding of the industry, which she said helped safeguard the integrity of the project. His involvement, she noted, was crucial in ensuring the story remained focused and unfiltered, even within the confines of the studio system.
Kravitz’s decision to stay behind the camera rather than star in the film herself was driven by her desire to fully support the story and its characters. She expressed excitement about giving space to other talented performers, particularly in an ensemble cast where each character needed to be fully realized.
The inclusion of Geena Davis in the cast added a layer of depth to the film, particularly given Davis’s advocacy for gender equality through her work with the Geena Davis Institute. Kravitz highlighted the generational aspect of Davis’s character, which she saw as a metaphor for the outdated mindsets that women have had to endure for centuries.
Kravitz also credited her mother, Lisa Bonet, as a significant influence throughout the filmmaking process. Describing Bonet as her “champion and inspiration,” Kravitz acknowledged the deep impact her mother’s presence and support had on the film.
As Blink Twice prepares for its release on August 23, Kravitz’s debut stands out as a reflection of her unique voice and vision, rooted in themes that are as old as humanity itself.
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