A Bigger Splash (2015)
Luca Guadagnino’s A Bigger Splash is a hypnotic exploration of desire, jealousy, and the emotional chaos that simmers just beneath the surface of a luxurious holiday. Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of the Italian island of Pantelleria, the film follows Marianne (Tilda Swinton),
a world-renowned rock star recovering from vocal surgery, and her partner Paul (Matthias Schoenaerts), as they enjoy a peaceful retreat — until an unexpected visit from Marianne’s former flame Harry (Ralph Fiennes) and his enigmatic daughter Penelope (Dakota Johnson) turns their world upside down.
What begins as a slow-burning drama quickly morphs into a volatile, emotionally charged thriller. Guadagnino masterfully builds tension through subtle gestures, prolonged silences, and glances that speak louder than words. Tilda Swinton delivers a haunting performance without relying on dialogue, while Fiennes brings an intoxicating energy to Harry — both magnetic and reckless. Johnson’s portrayal of Penelope adds a layer of mystery and quiet provocation, keeping the audience guessing about her true intentions.
Visually, A Bigger Splash is a feast for the senses. The cinematography captures the beauty and isolation of the island, enhancing the characters’ internal conflicts. The sun, the water, and the stillness of nature all reflect the underlying turbulence of the story.
This film isn’t just about the drama on the surface — it’s a psychological portrait of how passion and the past can intrude on the present in dangerous ways. A Bigger Splash is both stylish and disturbing, drawing viewers in with its aesthetics while unsettling them with its emotional depth.
