Ewan Mitchell’s Darkness in "High Life": A Performance to Reexamine
Despite the difficulty in recommending such a dark film, 'High Life' demands respect for its artistic bravery and unflinching examination of human depravity.
Robert Pattinson, Mia Goth, and Juliette Binoche all give strong performances, but I found Ewan Mitchell to be the most interesting, especially given that “House of the Dragon” is returning soon. He plays a wonderful villain, Aemond Targaryen, in that show, just as he does in this movie, as Ettore.
To embody such a vile character in a believable and engaging manner makes 'High Life' a film that, while challenging to watch, remains unforgettable for its intensity and raw portrayal of human darkness.
[SPOILERS BEYOND THIS POINT]
@jaylealtbyk High Life movie review. A Targaryan in space? 🧑🚀🐉🛰️#ewanmitchell #robertpattinson #miagoth #a24 #houseofthedragon #highlife #movietok #moviethemes #movieanalysis #CapCut ♬ original sound - Jay Leal
5/26/2024 - In the 2018 sci-fi psychological thriller "High Life," Ewan Mitchell, probably better known as Prince Aemond Targaryen in HBO’s "House of the Dragon," delivers a shockingly evil performance as Ettore.
He’s a character whose actions leave a lasting impact on viewers.
Mitchell proves his ability to portray some of the darkest sides of humanity and remain compelling to watch, especially in villainous roles.
In "High Life," Mitchell's character violently assaults Mia Goth’s character, Boyse, while she is bound to a bed.
This harrowing scene is intensified by his brutal decision to punch another inmate who attempts to intervene.
The sheer terror of this moment makes it one of the most memorable in the film, not only for its shocking brutality but also for its exploration of human depravity.
The characters in "High Life" are criminals sent on a suicide mission into space, serving their sentences in a floating prison where conventional rules barely apply.
This setting heightens the sense of isolation and desperation, pushing the characters to their psychological limits.
Mitchell’s Ettore takes advantage of these brutal circumstances, revealing the terrifying potential for human savagery in extreme situations.
In the 2018 sci-fi psychological thriller "High Life," Ewan Mitchell delivers a shockingly evil performance as Ettore, showcasing his ability to portray the darkest sides of humanity in one of the film's most memorable and brutal scenes.
Ewan Mitchell is an Interesting Actor
This performance is particularly noteworthy for fans who first encountered Mitchell as Prince Aemond Targaryen.
Judging merely by "House of the Dragon" and "High Life" (he was also in "Saltburn"), Mitchell seems to have the ability to delve into the darkest aspects of human nature.
I have only seen three of his projects (the ones mentioned), but I can see him carving out a career similar to that of Jesse Plemons or Barry Keoghan.
This Whole Premise is a Depressing Situation
Ettore’s decision to attack Boyse underscores the hellish reality faced by the women in this film, highlighting the severe psychological and physical toll of their circumstances.
Despite the difficulty in recommending such a dark film, "High Life" demands respect for its artistic bravery and unflinching examination of human depravity.
Mia Goth delivers an impressive performance as a prisoner facing severe physical and psychological trauma, with resolute determination to protect herself.
Ewan Mitchell’s portrayal in "High Life" is a testament to his skill as an actor, especially given that he does not have much screen time.
To embody such a vile character in a believable and engaging manner makes "High Life" a film that, while challenging to watch, remains unforgettable for its intensity and raw portrayal of human darkness.
Double Feature Idea: "High Life" and "Spaceman"
For an intense sci-fi night, pair "High Life" with "Spaceman."
If you’re a psycho like me, you’ll enjoy being showered with existential-threat content and disturbing space concepts.
Both films dive into the human psyche, exploring the mind's limits with black holes at their core.
"Spaceman" mystifies with its take on black holes and time, reminiscent of "Arrival," while "High Life" delves into the dark, violent sides of human nature in tight spaces.
Featuring stellar casts and innovative concepts, "High Life" shines with its gritty world-building and raw character motivations. "Spaceman," with Adam Sandler grounding the story, offers a heartfelt, mind-bending experience that leaves room for wild interpretations.
I dare you to try this double feature if you are a sci-fi buff.
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