Bad Behaviour
Alice Englert hit the Sundance Film Festival with her debut feature Bad Behaviour, a film that touches on mother-daughter relations, tensions and trauma. Englert proves herself to be a triple threat as writer, director and co-star alongside the hypnotic Jennifer Connelly. Despite a recipe that promises success, the plot lacks coherence, and while the acting is something to praise, the rest of the film feels lost.
The narrative centres around enlightenment seekers bravely venturing into a silent retreat, led by the self-proclaimed enlightened, and humorously named, Elon Bello (Ben Whishaw). Whishaw is great at playing a likeable yet slightly seedy guru. Throughout there is an uneasiness about the entire establishment – are they preying on the vulnerable? Is there something more sinister going on? Viewers are then given an insight into Dylan (Alice Englert), the daughter of Lucy (Connelly). The movie takes on a tonal shift as viewers watch the fractured maternal relationship unfold.
Connelly is triumphant, compelling and, honestly, a little frightening. Yet, viewers are only given minimal insight into the life of Lucy. We see her in a confused and self-destructive period but crave more backstory. Bad Behaviour is a testament to Connelly’s ability as an actress; she has incredible range and emotional depth.
It cannot be denied that Englert is innovative with her approach and tackles subjects, and locations, that many shy away from. Despite the confused plot, there are moments of real heart. These snippets remind us all of the mutual struggle to be human and the lengths we will venture to in order to find peace. Amidst the chaos, there is some extremely dry and cutting humour, which is extremely well-written and provides respite from the self-involved characters.
Bad Behaviour is certainly memorable, from its unusual landscapes to its challenging themes. It is a movie that is likely to linger in your mind days after watching. It may even encourage you to text your mother.
Tilley Bennett
Bad Behaviour is released in select cinemas on 5th January 2024.
Watch the trailer for Bad Behaviour here:
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