Ben Wheatley is a filmmaker known for unpredictable career moves, and with “Bulk,” he veers back to his mischievous roots. This film, a complex and energetic blend of genres, showcases Wheatley’s unique style, diverging from mainstream projects like “Meg 2: The Trench.” Boldly experimental, “Bulk” embodies Wheatley’s penchant for genre-blending, in stark contrast to his recent blockbuster attempt.
Returning to Indie Roots with “Bulk”
After the underwhelming reception of his shark-centric blockbuster, Wheatley brings “Bulk” as a refreshing return to form. Unlike the highly polished “Rebecca” remake, this film is a testament to creativity under constraints, blending elements of conspiracy thriller, time-bending sci-fi, and genre parody. It resonates with more energy and wit than his recent works, making it a fascinating exploration of his abilities.
An Offbeat Cinematic Experience
Premiering at the Edinburgh Film Festival’s Midnight Madness section, “Bulk” is a niche gem that might claim cult status. It feels like an unexpected late-night discovery, captivating yet disorienting. The storyline is intentionally fragmented, presenting a multiverse with infinite layers—making even the MCU appear straightforward. The narrative involves oligarch Anton Chambers’ risky experiment and journalist Cory Harlan’s efforts to navigate an ever-shifting reality.
A Unique Narrative Style
Wheatley crafts a story full of story tunnels and trapdoors, reminiscent of a Christopher Nolan premise, but with more whimsy and unpredictability. The setting transitions from suburban normalcy to chaotic battlefields with seamless absurdity. Characters like Aclima, played by Alexandra Maria Lara, guide Harlan, and the audience, through this tangled maze, emphasizing the film’s brevity and layered narrative.
Metatextual Humor and Stylistic Homages
“Bulk” thrives on a tapestry of influences, drawing from the quirky charm of “Thunderbirds” to the abstract sci-fi of “Alphaville.” Wheatley does more than invoke these references; he recreates them with devotion. The visual style, captured by DP Nick Gillespie, shifts from noir elegance to textured model-making. This eclectic aesthetic is enriched by a synth-heavy score, offering a playful yet unsettling audio backdrop.
In “Bulk,” Sam Riley’s performance channels the classic wrong-man trope, his persona fitting seamlessly within the film’s chaotic landscape. Alexandra Maria Lara complements him with her composed yet dynamic presence. Their chemistry adds to the film’s charm, embodying Wheatley’s delight in crafting such a mischievous, engaging narrative.
With “Bulk,” Ben Wheatley delivers a film that, while unconventional, is charged with creativity and bold vision. It’s a gleeful detour into the idiosyncratic, leaving audiences intrigued by the possibilities of genre-bending storytelling.
