Paramount+ has dropped an exclusive feature film in the form of Violet.
In this disturbing drama, we meet Violet (Olivia Munn), a LA film production executive in her thirties who, at first glance, appears to have it all: a best friend Lila (Erica Ash) who she can vent to and a friendship with screenwriter Red (Luke Bracey) that might just be more than friendship. But there’s more to Violet as we discover she has a committee in her head, and a bullying male (Justin Theroux) who’s destroying her self-esteem.
But that’s not all, there’s a second running commentary, this one silent and less sure of itself, appearing as loopy cursive text across the scene, which is what Violet is thinking. Add to that her childhood memories, projects onto a screen, and it’s a lot to deal with.
Will Violet be able to quell her inner demons, or is she destined to deal with the committee for the rest of her life?
Justine Bateman pens an interesting premise with mixed results as the committee take centre stage in different forms, but it’s a delicate balance.
Olivia Munn is given a chance to show her dramatic chops, and it’s an engrossing performance.
Violet is an interesting premise and has a lot to say about the challenges one can face as they battle their inner demons.
3.5 Stars
Violet is now streaming on Paramount+