The wasp: A tangled web of deceit and desperation
A chilling introduction
Early in The Wasp, Naomie Harris delivers a haunting monologue about tarantula hawks, a species of spider that paralyzes its prey before consuming it alive. This gruesome imagery sets the stage for the film’s dark and twisty narrative, which revolves around two former friends, Heather (Harris) and Carla (Natalie Dormer), locked in a deadly game of manipulation and violence. Unfortunately, this initial moment of dread is the film’s high point, as the subsequent plot twists fail to maintain the same level of tension.
Characters in conflict
Heather is a wealthy, childless Londoner trapped in a strained marriage with Simon (Dominic Allburn). In stark contrast, Carla is a struggling grocery store cashier with four children, a fifth on the way, and a husband who is a hopeless drunk and gambler. The disparity in their social and economic statuses serves as a driving force for Carla’s desperation, but the screenplay, adapted by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm from his play, misses the opportunity to delve deeper into the complexities of their relationship.
Motherhood and metaphors
Malcolm’s screenplay leans heavily on metaphors of motherhood and pregnancy, drawing parallels to wasp behavior. Heather’s longing for a child contrasts sharply with Carla’s willingness to trade one for financial gain. Through flashbacks, the origins of their turbulent relationship are revealed, showing how their friendship turned antagonistic and why neither can be trusted. As the story unfolds, Heather offers Carla a way out of poverty, but it comes with a heavy price.
Performances and interplay
Harris and Dormer deliver committed performances, building a palpable sense of both hatred and attraction between their characters. However, the film frequently cuts away to flashbacks featuring younger versions of Heather and Carla, played by Leah Mondesir-Simmonds and Olivia Juno-Cleverley, respectively. These flashbacks often serve as red herrings, distracting from the central mystery and diluting the tension.
Character development and screenplay flaws
As the plot becomes more convoluted, Harris’ performance weakens. She portrays a woman crumbling under unmet expectations and a lack of support from her husband, but the increasingly histrionic plot undermines her credibility. Dormer, on the other hand, starts as a stereotype of a working-class complainer but gradually adds layers of complexity to her character, revealing the pain behind her anger. Both actresses could have benefitted from a screenplay that prioritized character development over cheap thrills.
Directorial choices
Director Guillem Morales, known for his work on the darkly humorous British TV anthology series Inside No. 9, could have infused more of that wit into The Wasp. Instead, the film is bogged down by too many schematic storylines and a lack of playfulness. Morales relies on his lead actors to bring vitality to the proceedings, but the repetitive and circular scenes diminish the intensity of their performances.
Final thoughts
The Wasp had the potential to deliver on its early promise, but its reliance on tricking the audience ultimately undermines the narrative. The screenplay’s focus on shrewd reveals leaves the capable cast stranded, resulting in a film that feels both dubious and improbable. While Harris and Dormer do their best to elevate the material, the film’s convoluted plot and lack of character depth prevent it from reaching its full potential.
For those interested in exploring the film further, you can watch the trailer for The Wasp here.
Additional insights for cinema and TV series enthusiasts
For fans of cinema and TV series, The Wasp offers an intriguing, if flawed, exploration of friendship, betrayal, and desperation. The film’s use of metaphors and flashbacks adds layers to the narrative, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The performances by Harris and Dormer are noteworthy, showcasing their ability to navigate complex characters despite the screenplay’s shortcomings.
If you’re interested in similar themes of manipulation and psychological tension, consider checking out other works by Guillem Morales, such as episodes of Inside No. 9. This anthology series blends dark humor with twisted narratives, offering a more satisfying experience for those who enjoy intricate storytelling.
For more information on Inside No. 9, you can watch the trailer here.
Music enthusiasts: A soundtrack to match the mood
While The Wasp may not have a standout soundtrack, music enthusiasts can enhance their viewing experience by exploring tracks that complement the film’s dark and tense atmosphere. Consider listening to albums or songs that evoke a sense of suspense and unease.
For example, you can explore the haunting melodies of Hildur Guðnadóttir’s score for Joker here. This soundtrack captures the psychological tension and emotional depth that The Wasp strives for.
By immersing yourself in the right music, you can elevate your experience of the film and appreciate the nuances of its narrative and performances.