Chelsea Alexandra
The word opus is Latin for “work”. Most times when we are thinking of the word opus, we are usually referring to magnum opus, one’s great work, one’s life’s work. In music, the word opus is used to number a composer’s work. For example, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D Minor is sometimes called Opus 125 (Ode to Joy). In Mark Anthony Green’s film Opus, legendary popstar Alfred Moretti decides to reemerge into the public eye to announce what could be his magnum opus. However, it is unclear if his magnum opus is a culmination of his life and genius or if it is something more ominous.
The film stars Ayo Edebiri (The Bear, Bottoms) as Ariel Ecton, a young writer invited to the isolated estate of legendary pop star Moretti, portrayed by John Malkovich (Burn After Reading). Moretti, who vanished from the public eye three decades ago, reemerges to host an exclusive listening event for his new album. After arriving at Moretti’s estate, Ariel encounters a group of celebrities and journalists, only to uncover unsettling behaviors that suggest Moretti has been leading a cult.
There is nothing I enjoy more than a thrill ride centered around cults, and although the trailer remains ambiguous as to what Moretti’s opus could be, it is clear that is something darker and toes the line of madness. Setting the scene at a secluded estate with a cryptic world-renowned celebrity already creates a palpable tension that is oozing from the trailer alone.
Over the last few years, we’ve seen Edebiri shine in dramatic and comedic roles, consistently delivering standout performances. Now, in Opus, I can’t wait to watch her lead us through a heart-pounding thrill ride. Her portrayal of Ariel seems to anchor the story. While we don’t know much about the mysterious Moretti, it is hard to think we would get anything less than enigmatic from Malkovich. Pairing her next to someone as legendary as John Malkovich adds excitement.
This film could be loaded with two performances that we could be talking about all year. Coming off 2024 packed with films centered on fictional pop stars, it’s impossible not to get excited about the original music this movie might offer. The trailer’s 80s synth-pop vibe already strikes a chord with me—it’s right in my musical sweet spot!
The ensemble cast includes Juliette Lewis (Yellowjackets), Murray Bartlett (White Lotus), Amber Midthunder (Prey), Stephanie Suganami (Something from Tiffany’s), and Young Mazino (Beef). Opus is set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 2025, before its theatrical release on March 14, 2025.
