TIFF 2014 Review // Maps to the Stars

David Cronenberg returns to TIFF with the delightfully disturbed Maps to the Stars. While I know not to expect a skip through the daisies from the Canadian master of the macabre, I never knew he could be this funny! Perhaps it’s a result of Cronenberg handing over screenwriting duties to Bruce Wagner, or perhaps it’s because the film targets a Hollywood attitude that the director has always struggled with over his career. Either way, it combines the typical Cronenberg nightmarish feeling with a jet black satire of celebrity and Hollywood nepotism that’s just a treat to watch.

The ensemble cast includes Julianne Moore, John Cusack, Robert Pattinson, Mia Wasikowska and Olivia Williams, and they all do a great job. Julianne Moore picked up the best actress award this year at Cannes and it’s easy to see why. Her gutsy portrayal of a grown-up Lindsay Lohan type – so self-absorbed that she will literally dance with happiness at the death of a child if it furthers her career – is one of the ugliest characters seen on screen this year. Really, she makes Mr. Turner look like Mary Poppins. Most of the other characters are equally reprehensible which makes it quite fun to watch as literal ghosts from the past come back to terrorize them.

A sort of Hollywood urban legend, Maps to the Stars feels like a perfectly timed film for Cronenberg. At the height of his powers he takes on the dream factory and creates a nightmare, filling it with details and in-jokes that will have film scholars scratching their heads for years to come. After a day of movies I feel like I need a second viewing of this one, but chances are that would only leave me with more questions. Consider it highly recommended, but if you’re stepping out to ogle celebrities on the red carpet afterwards, don’t be surprised if you get a sick feeling in your stomach.

Reviewed by Evan Arppe. 

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