Zoë Kravitz Tackles Power and Stereotypes in Her Debut Film, “Blink Twice”

Zoë Kravitz is making waves with her directorial debut, “Blink Twice,” a thriller she describes as a “Get Out” for women. While she doesn’t mind the comparison, she emphasizes that her film is a deep cultural analysis focused on power dynamics, particularly how they impact women. Kravitz is keen to explore power itself—how people pursue it, wield it, and abuse it.

The film stars Naomi Ackie as Frida, a young cocktail waitress struggling to make ends meet. Frida’s life takes a dramatic turn when she and her friend Jess, played by Alia Shawkat, trade their server uniforms for elegant dresses. They find themselves swept up in the world of Slater King, a wealthy billionaire Channing Tatum portrays. After meeting at a fundraiser, the party moves to King’s private island, where things quickly turn sinister.

As Frida and Jess indulge in lavish parties and five-star meals, they start noticing strange occurrences. Workers kill huge snakes, and the island’s eerie vibe grows more unsettling. Kravitz uses these moments to highlight society’s expectations of women and how they force them into absurd roles. The film critiques the expectation that women ignore trauma and maintain composure, even in distressing situations.

Kravitz intentionally cast Tatum to play the charming yet creepy billionaire, Slater King. She wanted someone who could embody the everyday predator—someone seemingly safe and trustworthy. Naomi Ackie’s performance as Frida was also pivotal; Kravitz praises Ackie’s ability to convey complex emotions, making her character’s experience feel authentic.

Kravitz insists “Blink Twice” isn’t just a critique of powerful men like Jeffrey Epstein or Harvey Weinstein. Instead, it examines how power can corrupt anyone, regardless of status. For Kravitz, the film is a broader commentary on power, oppression, and the challenges women face navigating a world that often overlooks and undermines them.

There’s a stereotypical perception of women in positions of power. Do you think this perception affects their ability to lead effectively? How can women reclaim power in environments that often dismiss their voices? We would love to hear your views.