As a connoisseur of cinema with a penchant for the eclectic and the offbeat, I must confess that Max Minghella’s “Shell” has left me utterly captivated. The man is not just an actor; he’s a multi-hyphenate talent, weaving tales as a writer, producer, and director. His sophomore directing effort is a testament to his versatility and vision, a dark comedy that pays homage to the thrillers of the 1980s with a sprinkle of sci-fi and body horror.
Many people are familiar with Max Minghella from his outstanding performances in shows like “Handmaid’s Tale” or “The Mindy Project”, as well as various roles in films and television. However, it’s not just acting where he excels; he is also a writer, producer, and director. With the film “Shell”, he not only continues his work as a director with his second feature, but he also collaborates once more with Elisabeth Moss, who starred in “Handmaid’s Tale”.
In a new role, Samantha, once a successful actor from a popular TV series in her youth, finds herself struggling to land parts that suit her abilities as she grows older. Instead, she’s consistently overshadowed by more youthful and athletic performers. Desperate and advised by her agents, she turns to the Shell clinic, touting eternal youth and beauty. The treatment proves effective, and she forms a friendship with Zoe, the founder of Shell (portrayed by Kate Hudson). However, strange and unpleasant occurrences begin affecting Sam’s skin, people mysteriously vanish, and both the authorities and thugs pursue her relentlessly.
The film “Shell” draws inspiration from 1980s thrillers and infuses elements of science fiction, but it also offers a darkly humorous take with numerous body horror scenes and satirical undertones. The movie is set in a technologically advanced near-future featuring electric cars and smart watches, yet it’s produced by Range, Blank Tape, Love & Squalor, and Dark Castle Entertainment. WME Independent and CAA Media Finance are managing U.S. sales, while Black Bear is handling international representation.
As a movie enthusiast, I found the concept behind this film intriguing. Initially, I had imagined it was set in some far-off, technologically advanced future we envisioned in the 90s. However, it seems to be something quite different – more like a nostalgic glimpse into a future that never happened. If I were to put it simply, I’d call it a ‘retro-future’, at least for lack of a better term.
2018 saw me, as a movie critic, captivated by the “Shell” script penned by Jack Stanley. The script, with its imaginative, abstract nature, was not what I typically gravitate towards. It delved into body horror and boasted striking, bold imagery – elements that don’t usually resonate with my usual taste. Yet, there was an inexplicable allure to it, something that left a lasting impression on me and remained etched in my memory.
As a cinephile, I penned my interpretation and subsequently collaborated closely with Stanley to sculpt the screenplay, molding it into an embodiment of the films that stirred my childhood imagination.
Hudson truly embodies the character of scene-stealing Zoe with such conviction. She wears extravagant garments that give an impression of armor, or a protective shell, and keeps her nails meticulously groomed to the point where it’s intriguing to ponder how she manages day-to-day tasks.
I found her character utterly captivating,” I express with enthusiasm. “And for this role, Kate was the sole actor I considered, the one who truly embodied the essence of the character as envisioned and written. Her innate charisma and self-assuredness in life are qualities that can’t be taught or imitated; they simply radiate from her.
Speaking about “Handmaid’s Tale” co-star Elizabeth Moss, Minghella shares his enthusiasm: “Lizzie delivers a near-perfect performance, and this wasn’t unexpected, but watching her tackle big comedic scenes in the movie is truly captivating. She brings an incredible sense of humor to the film, which I hadn’t seen from her before.
He notes, “When it’s time for the scene, I make sure to provide the actors room to perform effectively. This freedom enables them to truly act, and that’s what I enjoy most, particularly in comedy. My role is to facilitate fun and offer them the chance to express themselves in this way.
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2024-09-07 16:16