Entertainment
Explaining the Movie 'Climax'
Discover Gaspar Noé's 'Climax', the dizzying psychological horror film about a dance troupe's descent into LSD-fueled madness. Why is it trending?
What is it?
'Climax' is a 2018 psychological horror film directed by Gaspar Noé. Based loosely on real events, the movie follows a troupe of young French dancers who gather in a remote, empty school building for a post-rehearsal party. Their celebration spirals into a terrifying, drug-fueled nightmare when they discover their communal bowl of sangria has been spiked with a powerful dose of LSD. Shot with Noé's signature long takes and disorienting camera work, the film is a visceral and immersive experience that blurs the line between celebration and damnation, largely featuring improvised dialogue from its cast of professional dancers.
Why is it trending?
'Climax' frequently resurfaces in online discussions due to its extreme and polarizing nature. Film enthusiasts and horror fans praise its technical audacity, including its stunning single-take dance sequences and unconventional narrative structure. Its availability on streaming services introduces it to new audiences who share their shocked reactions on social media platforms like TikTok and Letterboxd. The film's pulsating soundtrack and intense visual style make it a unique, unforgettable, and highly debated piece of modern cinema.
How does it affect people?
The film is designed to be a sensory overload, leaving viewers feeling agitated, anxious, and even physically uncomfortable. Noé uses throbbing electronic music, dizzying cinematography, and escalating chaos to simulate the characters' nightmarish trip. For many, it's a deeply unsettling exploration of human nature stripped to its most primal instincts. While some find it brilliant and mesmerizing, others find it gratuitous and disturbing. Ultimately, 'Climax' is a cinematic endurance test that provokes a strong emotional and visceral response, cementing its reputation as a modern cult classic.