#154 - The Neon Demon: When Style Overshadows Substance

The Cinedicate: Film & TV Podcast

Dive into the dazzling, divisive world of "The Neon Demon" on this episode of The Cinedicate! Host Armand, alongside guests Hector and Ed, dissect Nicolas Winding Refn's controversial film, critiquing its striking visuals, flawed plot, and polarizing performances. From Keanu Reeves' unexpected role to the film's pretentious aesthetics and unsettling themes, this episode explores every facet with passionate debate. Whether you're a horror aficionado or a casual moviegoer, join us as we unravel the neon-soaked enigma and decide if it's art or an aesthetic misfire.

What to expect from the episode:

- A comprehensive critique of "The Neon Demon," focusing on Nicolas Winding Refn's directorial style, casting choices, and the film’s emphasis on aesthetic visuals over narrative depth.

- Discussions around the movie's themes of society's obsession with beauty, narcissism, the dark side of the fashion industry, and the concept of elevated horror.

- A candid exploration of controversial and shocking themes within the film, such as cannibalism and necrophilia, and the broader implications of society's obsession with beauty and the darker side of the fashion industry.

Episode chapters:

00:00 Introduction

01:37 The Neon Demon first impressions.

04:47 Nicolas Winding Refn's style and his magnum opus, Drive.

08:01 The Neon Demon synopsis.

12:59 Envy and decay from the fixation on beauty.

16:47 The film's massive problems.

18:23 The Innocent becomes the predator.

20:54 Industry as a predatory machine, devouring people.

26:31 Many people shaped George Lucas’ filmmaking ideas.

27:17 Denis Villeneuve’s films are not pretentious.

32:31 Surface over substance.

36:58 Comparing film to music.

37:37 Stressors in the fashion industry.

42:19 Sci-Fi action movie released after Star Wars.

44:47 "Some real 'Lolita' shit."

49:09 Shallow, one-dimensional LA full of vanity.

52:33 The Neon Demon losing it's "neon-lit" aesthetic..

54:42 Underdeveloped characters.

59:41 Nicolas Winding Refn is a hack.

01:01:40 Outro.

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Listen to Hector and Ed on their podcast, ReShoot: An Amateur's Guide to Gooder Film

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