Babylon is a historical drama film directed by Damien Chazelle, released on December 23, 2022. The movie dives into the extravagant and chaotic world of Hollywood in the 1920s, showcasing the rise and fall of ambitious dreamers trying to make a name in the entertainment industry.
With a star-studded cast including Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, and Diego Calva, Babylon presents a larger-than-life portrayal of the film industry during its transition from silent films to talkies. The film is filled with over-the-top moments, grand parties, and the dark side of fame. But does the movie succeed in capturing the essence of old Hollywood, or does it get lost in its own extravagance? Let’s find out.
Plot Summary
Set in the 1920s, Babylon follows multiple characters navigating the highs and lows of the film industry. Jack Conrad (Brad Pitt) is a silent film star at the peak of his career, while Nellie LaRoy (Margot Robbie) is an ambitious actress willing to do anything to make it big. Meanwhile, Manny Torres (Diego Calva) is an outsider trying to climb the ranks in Hollywood.
As the industry shifts to sound films, the characters struggle to adapt to the changing times. While some manage to evolve, others are left behind, swallowed by their own fame and excess. The film explores themes of ambition, excess, and the price of success, offering an unfiltered look at Hollywood’s golden age.
What’s Good?
Stunning Cinematography and Production Design
One of Babylon’s strongest aspects is its visual grandeur. The sets, costumes, and cinematography brilliantly capture the essence of 1920s Hollywood. From lavish parties to chaotic film sets, every scene is bursting with energy and attention to detail.
Outstanding Performances
Margot Robbie steals the show with her portrayal of Nellie LaRoy, a fearless and unpredictable actress who embodies the wild spirit of the era. Brad Pitt delivers a strong performance as a seasoned actor grappling with change, while Diego Calva brings a fresh perspective as an outsider witnessing the madness of Hollywood.
Engaging Musical Score
The film’s jazz-infused soundtrack, composed by Justin Hurwitz, is a major highlight. The music adds to the chaotic yet exhilarating tone of the film, making scenes more immersive and emotionally charged.
Bold Storytelling
Director Damien Chazelle takes risks with Babylon, delivering an unapologetically wild and ambitious film. The storytelling is fast-paced, unfiltered, and full of shocking moments, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Visually spectacular, with impressive production design and cinematography.
- Powerful performances, especially from Margot Robbie and Brad Pitt.
- A fantastic soundtrack that enhances the film’s energy.
- Ambitious storytelling that dares to be different.
Weaknesses
- Overlong runtime, with a three-hour duration that could have been trimmed.
- Excessive chaos, with some scenes feeling overwhelming and unnecessarily extravagant.
- Not for everyone, as the film’s explicit and wild nature may not appeal to all viewers.
- Uneven pacing, with some moments dragging while others move too fast.
Target Audience
This movie is best suited for:
- Fans of historical dramas and Hollywood-centric films.
- Viewers who enjoy bold, experimental storytelling.
- Those who appreciate strong performances and visually striking films.
- Audiences comfortable with explicit themes and mature content.
Box Office Details
Babylon had a mixed box office performance. While it received praise for its artistic ambition, its extravagant nature and long runtime limited its commercial appeal. Below is a breakdown of its financial performance.
| Category | Amount (INR Crore) |
|---|---|
| Total Budget | 1,500 |
| Worldwide Collection | 1,700 |
Day-Wise Earnings (First 5 Days)
| Day | India Collection (INR Crore) | Overseas Collection (INR Crore) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 2.8 | 250.0 |
| Day 2 | 3.5 | 270.0 |
| Day 3 | 4.2 | 290.0 |
| Day 4 | 3.0 | 260.0 |
| Day 5 | 2.6 | 240.0 |
Despite its star-studded cast and impressive visuals, the film struggled to perform strongly at the box office.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Babylon is a visually stunning, ambitious film that captures the madness of Hollywood’s early years. While it may not appeal to mainstream audiences due to its chaotic nature and long runtime, it is a must-watch for cinephiles and fans of daring storytelling. If you love bold filmmaking, Babylon is worth experiencing.