Few films in recent memory have polarized audiences quite like Damien Chazelle's Babylon. Released in December 2022, the film stars Margot Robbie, Brad Pitt, and Diego Calva, exploring the chaotic transition from silent to sound cinema in 1920s Hollywood. Featuring stunning visuals and a frenetic pace, Babylon was praised for its ambition but criticized for its excess.
With a production budget of $80 million, the film grossed only $63 million worldwide, resulting in a staggering $87 million loss for Paramount. While the box office numbers painted a grim picture, Babylon found an unlikely champion in French audiences and critics, who praised its daring approach.
In a recent interview with Talking Pictures, Margot Robbie shared her thoughts on the backlash:
“I still can't figure out why people really hated it. I love it… I often wonder if, in 20 years, people are gonna say, ‘Wait, Babylon didn't do well at the time? That's crazy!'”
Robbie's speculation aligns with the fate of several iconic films initially dismissed upon release, like The Shawshank Redemption. Babylon's polarizing nature stems largely from Chazelle's fearless storytelling. From the outrageous opening party scene to the harrowing underworld sequence with Tobey Maguire, the film constantly shifts between humor, drama, and horror.
Critics noted flaws, such as its bloated 188-minute runtime and uneven tone, but also recognized its brilliance in depicting a tumultuous era. The film's exploration of Hollywood's harsh realities — how it discards its own stars and churns out fleeting fame — is a sharp departure from Chazelle's romanticized view in La La Land.
The cast delivers powerful performances, with Robbie portraying a reckless but talented actress striving to stay relevant amid Hollywood's evolving demands. Diego Calva's portrayal of Manny Torres, a dreamer caught in the whirlwind, is equally compelling.
Even with its divisive reception, Babylon has moments that linger: the chaotic shoot of a silent film, the elephant crashing a lavish party, and the nods to David Lynch's surreal storytelling. These elements make Babylon hard to forget, even for its critics.
So, will history redeem Babylon? As Robbie suggests, only time will tell. Perhaps in two decades, audiences will recognize its audacity as a strength rather than a flaw.
Babylon is undeniably a bold film that refuses to play it safe. While its sprawling narrative and tonal shifts may alienate some viewers, these risks also make it intriguing. The performances, especially by Robbie and Calva, are captivating, and the film's visual storytelling is a feast for the eyes. However, the pacing and length might have benefited from tighter editing.
Despite its flaws, Babylon stands as a testament to the power of ambitious filmmaking. Chazelle's portrayal of Hollywood's golden age is as brutal as it is mesmerizing, and that dichotomy leaves a lasting impression.
Do you think Babylon will be reevaluated as a classic in the future, or will its polarizing nature keep it from gaining widespread acclaim?
I genuinely loved this film. It made me appreciate film as art, which I had either not appreciated or had forgotten when I saw it.
I personally don’t like cookie cutter Marvel-like films, nor the self congratulating culture of Hollywood/ celebrities. I really like how this film referenced celebrities and was so unique/ distinct in its approach. I couldn’t recommend it enough.
I’m with my Margot on this one. It deserves so much more than it got.