Opus” Release Date Revealed: Where to Watch Now

Tonal and Narrative Cousin

The film “Opus” is a tonal and narrative cousin to 2022’s “The Menu”, a movie that also explores themes of celebrity culture. Like “The Menu”, “Opus” delves into the darker side of fame and the excesses of the entertainment industry.

Both films feature a similar blend of satire and horror, using dark humor to critique the superficiality and narcissism of celebrity culture. However, while “The Menu” focuses on the culinary world, “Opus” explores the music industry, offering a unique perspective on the cult of celebrity that surrounds famous musicians.

What’s ‘Opus’ About and What to Expect

Plot Summary

“Opus” follows a young writer, Ariel (played by Ayo Edebiri), who is invited to visit a remote compound occupied by a legendary, eccentric pop star, Alfred Moretti (played by John Malkovich), who disappeared under mysterious circumstances 30 years prior.

Ariel soon finds herself surrounded by a cult of adoring fans, journalists, and admirers who are unabashedly drawn to Moretti’s fame and charisma. As she gets to know Moretti, she begins to suspect that the gathering itself has been orchestrated for more twisted and sinister reasons than anyone could predict.

The film’s plot is a slow-burning, suspenseful thriller that builds towards a shocking climax, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the mystery of Moretti’s true intentions.

Twisted and Sinister Reasons

Ariel’s suspicions are fueled by the strange and unsettling atmosphere of the compound, where the lines between reality and fantasy are blurred. As she digs deeper, she uncovers a web of deceit and manipulation that threatens to destroy everything she thought she knew about Moretti and himself.

The film’s use of atmosphere and tone is masterful, creating a sense of unease and tension that permeates every scene. The cinematography is stark and unsettling, capturing the eerie and isolated setting of the compound in all its glory.

Atmosphere and Tone

“Opus” is described as a “nightmarish” satire, suggesting a dark and unsettling atmosphere that is both terrifying and fascinating. The film’s tone is often described as “unsettling” and “creepy”, with a sense of unease that is hard to shake.

The film’s use of satire is also noteworthy, as it critiques the excesses and superficiality of the entertainment industry with a sharp and biting wit. The film is not afraid to tackle tough subjects, such as the commodification of celebrity and the cult of personality that surrounds famous musicians.

Implications and Analysis

Celebrity Culture and Satire

“Opus” explores the darker side of celebrity culture, using satire to critique the excesses and superficiality of the entertainment industry. The film is a scathing critique of the cult of celebrity that surrounds famous musicians, highlighting the dangers of idolization and the corrupting influence of fame.

The film’s use of satire is both clever and incisive, offering a sharp critique of the entertainment industry’s obsession with celebrity and fame. By using humor and irony, the film is able to tackle tough subjects in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Themes and Messages

The film’s themes and messages are likely to resonate with audiences, particularly those interested in horror, thriller, and satire genres. The film’s exploration of the darker side of celebrity culture is both timely and relevant, highlighting the dangers of idolization and the corrupting influence of fame.

The film’s use of atmosphere and tone is also noteworthy, creating a sense of unease and tension that permeates every scene. The film’s slow-burning pace and suspenseful plot keep viewers on the edge of their seats, making it a thrilling and entertaining ride.

Director’s Vision

Mark Anthony Green, the film’s writer and director, has a clear vision for the project, drawing inspiration from the art world and his own experiences as a celebrity interviewer. The film is a personal and passionate project, one that reflects Green’s own fascination with the cult of celebrity and the dangers of idolization.

Green’s use of satire is both clever and incisive, offering a sharp critique of the entertainment industry’s obsession with celebrity and fame. By using humor and irony, Green is able to tackle tough subjects in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Where to Watch ‘Opus’

Release Date

“Opus” is set to be released on Friday, March 14. It made its world premiere on January 27 at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.

Streaming or Theaters

An A24 release, “Opus” is currently only playing in theaters. It will likely be at least a few weeks before the film becomes available to rent on VOD, too, and even longer before it debuts on a streaming service.

For now, you can purchase tickets to local theatrical screenings of the film at the following links:

• Fandango
• Atom Tickets
• Regal Cinemas

Cast

“Opus” stars Ayo Edebiri (“The Bear”), John Malkovich (“Being John Malkovich”), Juliette Lewis (“Yellowjackets”), Murray Bartlett (“The White Lotus”), Amber Midthunder (“Prey”), Young Mazino (“Beef”), Tatanka Means (“Killers of the Flower Moon”) and Tony Hale (“Veep”).