Review of Babylon (2022) by Quincinema — 10 Jan 2023

This is one of the absolute best movies of the year. Babylon is a love letter to every aspect of filmmaking. The beauty and the pain, the malevolent and the benevolent. We observe the empirical rise of Hollywood through the eyes of six eccentric figures in the movie business, whose lives intertwine in fascinating and often hilarious ways.

We are primarily guided through these events by up-and-comer Manuel Torres, played by the incredible Diego Calva. His character is very charming and relatable, but even he gives into the problematic and unethical practices of the late-twenties to early-thirties Hollywood, which goes to show that this movie pulls no punches.

Hollywood is filled with scum beyond our wildest imaginations, and this film isn't afraid to state it, most apparently when Tobey Maguire's character, Adam McKay, is introduced. This wild climax is equal parts horrific and bodacious, and really brings a sense of intense energy to the final the leg of the film.

By the end of it all, we, along with Manny, experience something profound and invigorating. I can't praise this movie enough! The music is infectious, the performances are godly, the script is incredible and the cinematography is often breathtaking.

If you love movies, and especially if you have an interest in the art of filmmaking, you will love this movie. A lot of the negative reviews come from people who complain that the movie is too gratuitous, or even claim that it's outright disgusting.

I believe these people must not watch many movies, or simply have weak stomachs. So, if you don't have a weak stomach and have an interest in the early days of movie magic, go out and see what could be the last of the Hollywood epics: Babylon! You don't want to miss it.