“Opus” Strikes a Sinister Chord-A24’s Twisted Symphony of Fame, Fear & Obsession

The Premise – Fame Is a Dangerous Game

Written and directed by Mark Anthony Green, Opus follows Ayo Edebiri as Ariel Ecton, a rising music journalist invited to the secluded estate of Alfred Moretti (John Malkovich), a legendary pop star who mysteriously vanished three decades ago.

What begins as a dream assignment quickly spirals into a nightmare. Ariel finds herself surrounded by:

• Intoxicated journalists desperate for access
• Devoted cult-like followers who worship Moretti’s every word
• Manipulative rituals disguised as creative workshops

As Ariel uncovers Moretti’s twisted plan to orchestrate his comeback, she’s forced to confront her own ambitions, fears, and the price of truth. The compound becomes a psychological maze where music is both weapon and salvation.

“It’s like Black Swan meets Whiplash in a haunted recording studio,” one critic noted.

Cast & Craft – A Symphony of Unease

Ayo Edebiri delivers a breakout performance, balancing vulnerability with grit. Her portrayal of Ariel is raw, relatable, and quietly powerful. John Malkovich, as Moretti, is magneti, equal parts charming and chilling.

Supporting cast includes:

• Juliette Lewis as a washed-up producer clinging to relevance
• Murray Bartlett as a journalist with secrets of his own
• Amber Midthunder, Young Mazino, and Tatanka Means as members of Moretti’s inner circle

The film’s cinematography uses claustrophobic framing and surreal lighting to heighten tension. The score, composed by The-Dream and Nile Rodgers, blends ambient horror with distorted pop melodies, creating an atmosphere that’s both seductive and unsettling.

“The music isn’t just background—it’s a character,” said Green in a post-premiere interview.

Reception & Themes – Art, Ego & Exploitation

While Opus received mixed reviews from critics, with a 41% Rotten Tomatoes score, audiences have been more forgiving, praising its originality and eerie tone. The film explores:

• The cult of celebrity and its psychological toll
• Creative exploitation in the music industry
• Identity and ambition in the face of manipulation

Some viewers found the plot conceptually muddled, but many appreciated its ambition and emotional depth. The film’s slow-burn pacing and surreal visuals make it a standout in A24’s 2025 lineup.

“It’s not perfect, but it’s unforgettable,” one fan tweeted.

With its streaming debut on HBO Max, Opus may find a broader audience ready to embrace its haunting melody.

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