‘Love Lies Bleeding’ Review
An Incredibly Strong Film In More Ways Than One
Film: Love Lies Bleeding. Year: 2024. Genre: Action/Adventure/Crime. Director: Rose Glass
Only a few directional debuts have left the lingering impact Rose Glass’ Saint Maud had. The vengeful film about obsession and devotion to God was an intense work, not only because of the dark and intriguing narrative, but also because of Morfydd Clark’s impeccable lead performance. For her second movie, Glass again uses the power of obsession, a powerful female cast, and a compelling storyline with a twist. While Love Lies Bleeding has some little flaws here and there, it’s an immensely strong movie in more ways than one.
Glass, her co-writer Weronika Tofilska (Love Life, The Patient), and her lead actress Kristen Stewart (Spencer, Still Alice) immediately delve into the compelling story, set in New Mexico in 1989. You’re introduced to gym manager Lou, Stewart’s character, when she unblocks a clogged toilet with both hands.
Lou’s life is messy on other levels, too. She lives in the middle of nowhere, has been estranged from her gun-range-owning father (Ed Harris), who she believes killed her mother, and needs to protect her sister, Beth (Jena Malone), from her abusive husband, JJ (Dave Franco).
