An R-rated Margot Robbie drama dubbed ‘a misunderstood masterpiece’ is now streaming for free.
Channel 4’s on-demand service has just added Babylon to its catalogue, ready for Robbie fans to devour.
Penned and helmed by Damien Chazelle, who directed acclaimed films La La Land and Whiplash, the 2022 dramedy presents a distinctive tale.
The narrative chronicles Hollywood’s transformation from silent pictures to ‘talkies’ and examines how this evolution affected those working in the business.
Audiences witness rising starlet Nellie LaRoy (portrayed by Robbie) and movie star Jack Conrad (Brad Pitt) as they manoeuvre through “an era of unbridled decadence and depravity in early Hollywood,” as outlined in the synopsis, reports the Mirror.
Admirers of Chazelle’s earlier productions will recognise fleeting parallels between Babylon and La La Land, which is similarly situated in Los Angeles and focuses on individuals chasing their aspirations in Hollywood.
Nevertheless, the Oscar-winning filmmaker explores more sinister subjects in this piece, examining everything from devastating substance abuse to the corruption within the film business.
Whilst the production’s celebrity-packed ensemble captured public interest, Babylon ultimately disappointed expectations.
The film holds a disappointing 57% critics’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with general audiences granting it an even harsher 52%.
The critical consensus states: “Babylon’s overwhelming muchness is exhausting, but much like the industry it honours, its well-acted, well-crafted glitz and glamour can often be an effective distraction.”
However, despite its poor ratings, the 2022 dramedy has gained momentum in recent years. Cinema enthusiasts are adamant the three-hour epic will eventually be hailed as a timeless classic.
One five-star Google Review declares: “[…] Within the decade [this] will be considered a misunderstood masterpiece by many.”
Another viewer shared similar views, writing: “All I can say about Babylon is that it is a misunderstood masterpiece. I have never witnessed more decadence in the first 34 minutes of a film ever!! It’s outrageous and absolutely fantastic.”
Meanwhile, a Rotten Tomatoes user exclaimed: “UNDER FREAKING RATED,” with another declaring: “I wish it was 5 hours…Wow! ! ! What a ride. The music, the story, the acting…genius, pure genius!”
A further admirer gushed: “Meaningful, beautiful and entertaining. Easily one of the greatest movie ever made. It felt like Wolf of Wall Street from Hollywood between 20s and 30s. This movie should be praised.”
Babylon is streaming now on Channel 4.