I’ve had a few emails asking if I’ll be conducting my annual mid-year critics poll again this year, and the answer is ABSOLUTELY. There is no reason for me not too. Expect the results sometime during the first week of July.
One of the films that I figure will be placing quite highly in the final results is Rose Glass’ “Love Lies Bleeding,” which I dug quite a bit. This was a brutally entertaining pulpy neo-noir from Glass. She’s definitely a talent to watch as this was only her second feature film, the other being “Saint Maud.” She’s only 34.
In Mashable's recent interview with John Waters, the iconic director spoke about recent cinema, namechecking titles like “Femme,” “Drive-Away Dolls” and, no surprise, he absolutely loved Glass’ film:
As harrowing as it is tender, as horny as it is horrifying, Love Lies Bleeding is one of the best films of 2024.
Waters is currently working very hard to get the financing needed to direct his potential next film, “Liarmouth,” starring Aubrey Plaza. The world needs a new John Waters movie, now more than ever. Not a coincidence, Glass’ film does play like a mix of Coen, Tarantino and Waters.
“Love Lies Bleeding” tackles reclusive a gym manager, Lou (Kristen Stewart), who falls hard for Jackie (Katy O’Brian), an ambitious bodybuilder headed through town to Vegas in pursuit of her dream. However, their friendship suddenly ignites nasty violence, pulling them deep into the web of Lou's criminal family.
What did our readers think of this film? I imagine many of you have already seen “Love Lies Bleeding,” either in theaters or on streaming. Chime in with your thoughts in the comments section below.