Babylon (2022)

I approached my viewing of BABYLON with mixed feelings given the wildly differing opinions about it. As it turns out, it was exceptional. The ancient city of Babylon was known for its opulence and decadence, and the film is an apt reflection of its namesake. BABYLON, the movie, tells a captivatingly gripping story of ambition, excess, and depravity in Hollywood during the transition from silent films to sound films. The characters are fleshed out incredibly well; you understand their motivations for acting the way they do, and you root for them even as they make poor decisions. The cinematography is superb, with a focus on glamour and opulence. The soundtrack is fittingly decadent and jazz-influenced, adding to the atmosphere of the film.

Margot Robbie, who plays Nellie LaRoy, the lead character, delivers an excellent performance. She perfectly captures the contradictions of Nellie’s ambition and insecurity as she makes her way through a world of characters who are out to capitalise on her talents.

Brad Pitt, portraying Jack Conrad, is also particularly good. His portrayal of a morally bankrupt yet charismatic figure is spot on. Rather than being actual historical figures, Nellie LaRoy and Jack Conrad are fictional composite characters and serve as allegorical figures to illustrate the excesses of Hollywood during this era.

The director, Damien Chazelle, brings the story to life with an expertly crafted script and powerful performances. He clearly loves cinema but is brutally honest in his portrayal of the ruthlessness and decadence of Hollywood. He artfully juxtaposes ambition and excess with morality and integrity. It’s a captivating tale that helps us to understand how the movies of old were made, and why they still have such a lasting impact.

I can understand why some people hate the movie and even walk out. The opening scene is an over-the-top party that is one big orgy of gluttony, sex, gross behaviour, drugs, and excess – and it goes on for an extended period before the main title of the movie comes on screen. But once you get past this, it becomes obvious that this scene is a microcosm of what BABYLON is about – and it sets the tone for the rest of the movie which settles into a fascinating story of ambition, excess, and morality.

For those who stick with it to the end, there’s a great payoff. This is a warts-and-all, no punches pulled, exploration of a very dark Hollywood in the late 1920s and 1930s. It’s a story that is at once engrossing and thought-provoking.

(In cinemas in Australia – check your movie guide for your local show times.)