Brian de Palma’s Passion (2012) is an exquisite work of cinema that lies somewhere between the realms of a quintessential Hollywood erotic thriller and an ambitious European art-house product. Brain de Palma’s comeback film, Passion undoubtedly deserves more attention that it’s been getting ever since its release. And it can be said with utmost certainty that the movie’s detractors either have too refined tastes or no taste whatsoever.
In Passion, de Palma immaculately uses surreal imagery, à la David Lynch, in unison with his characteristic style–best demonstrated in his classic works like Sisters, Dressed to Kill, Body Double, and Blow Out–to create a psychological labyrinth. Passion transcends genres and unlike many contemporary films succeeds in presenting its subject in a remarkably bold manner.
Passion presents a tale of rivalry, in an advertising agency, between a manipulative female boss and her talented protégée. The rivalry, which starts off on a petty note, soon takes a deadly turn as the two, overcome by their jealousy and lust for power, fail to settle their differences, professionally and amicably.
The movie’s greatest strength is the powerful performances by movie’s cast, Noomi Rapace and Rachel McAdams in particular. A part of the credit must go to de Palma for eliciting worthy performances not only from the two leads but also from the support cast. José Luis Alcaine’s sumptuous cinematography deserves a special mention. Passion is replete with sex and violence and is definitely not for the faint-hearted or those with a conservative outlook. The movie can be best enjoyed by eschewing bigotry and prejudice. Highly recommended!