Nocturnal Animals: A Cinematic Symphony of Revenge and Reflection

[SPOILER ALERT!!!]

The core of "Nocturnal Animals" is a powerful exploration of revenge, elegantly depicted through its meticulous use of colours, music, and striking imagery. From the outset, the film is designed to jolt the viewer into discomfort, beginning with scenes of naked, overweight women dancing to the magnificent music of Abel Korzeniowski, a composer known for his collaboration with Tom Ford in "A Single Man".

RED: A Dominant Motif

Red is the film's primary colour, symbolizing passion, sensuality, and pain. Red curtains frame the unsettling dancers, hinting at choices and their dire consequences. This colour recurs on Susan's lips, signifying her faded zeal for life and burgeoning regret. The contrast between the eerie, naked bodies dancing in slow motion and the elegant symphony of arcs underscores the film's ability to simultaneously repel and captivate the viewer's gaze.

A Tale of Two Lives, Intertwined by Sorrow

"Nocturnal Animals" narrates the story of Susan, a woman whose present life is hollow and devoid of meaning, set against the backdrop of her memories of past love with her former husband, Edward. This dual timeline is masterfully interwoven with the plot of a novel Edward sends to Susan, a dark tale of a husband who loses his wife and daughter to a senseless act of violence. This book, dedicated to Susan, stirs deep emotions within her as she confronts the emptiness of her current life while being haunted by the agonizing events in the novel.

Themes of Weakness and Betrayal

The film delves into the themes of weakness and betrayal. Edward, portrayed as sweet and romantic, is deemed "weak" by Susan, who leaves him for a more superficial and emotionally vacant relationship. The narrative of the book mirrors her betrayal, depicting a husband powerless to save his family. Susan's journey through the novel awakens her to the pain she inflicted on Edward, culminating in a profound realization of her own desolation.

Revenge as Redemption

Throughout the film, the omnipresent red symbolizes the underlying rage and desire for retribution. This journey of revenge is not just literal but symbolic of Edward’s pain and Susan's ultimate penance. The final scene, where Susan prepares to meet Edward in an emerald-green dress, only to be left waiting, marks the climax of her reckoning. The removal of her red lipstick serves as a poignant reminder of her lost passion and the consequences of her actions.

A Masterpiece of Cinematic Art

"Nocturnal Animals" stands out for its seamless synthesis of aesthetic beauty and profound emotional depth. Tom Ford's direction ensures that every element—from the haunting score to the vivid imagery—serves to enhance the narrative's impact. The film's exploration of human frailty, loss, and the unyielding quest for revenge resonates powerfully, making it a masterful piece of cinema that leaves a lasting impression.

In conclusion, "Nocturnal Animals" is a film that challenges the viewer to confront uncomfortable truths, enveloped in a world of stunning visuals and evocative music. It is a testament to Tom Ford's ability to transform a simple storyline into an intricate tapestry of emotion and symbolism, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.