Do Revenge

Do Revenge is a teen dark comedy film released in 2022 that blends sharp wit with a modern twist on the high school revenge trope, combining elements reminiscent of the classic tales of teenage angst and retaliation with contemporary themes and sensibilities. Directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, the movie is a vibrant and stylized take on the genre that orbits around themes of social standing, the perils of the digital age, and the complexities of friendship and identity among the newest generation of high schoolers.

The narrative of Do Revenge revolves around the interconnected lives of two high school students from different walks of the teenage social hierarchy. Drea Torres, portrayed by Camila Mendes of "Riverdale" fame, is at the peak of her high school career, socially thriving as the queen bee with a coveted future ahead of her. Her life seems almost perfect until a personal betrayal turns it upside down, causing her to face public humiliation and a consequent fall from her influential position within the elite student body.

On the other side, we have Eleanor, played with a nuanced touch by Maya Hawke, known for her role in "Stranger Things." Eleanor attends the same elite high school but doesn't swim in the same opulent waters as Drea. She's a quirky outsider with an indie spirit who has been harboring a grudge since a traumatic experience from her past was made public, an incident that's been hanging like a dark cloud over her high school existence.

Their paths cross in an unexpected way when they realize they share a mutual distaste for those who have wronged them, and instead of wallowing in their respective misfortunes, they decide to team up. Drawing inspiration from Alfred Hitchcock's "Strangers on a Train," Drea and Eleanor hatch a pact to "do revenge" for one another. By targeting each other's tormentors, they plan to escape suspicion and enact their retribution without dirtying their hands directly.

The execution of their schemes forms the heart of the film, loaded with twists and turns, deceptions, and over-the-top high school scenarios. The plot is crafted with meticulous detail, touching upon the contemporary issues facing teenagers today. Social media plays a significant role in their lives, holding the power to both elevate and destroy a person's reputation within moments. Through the lens of this digital battleground, the film explores the themes of consent, privacy, and the double standards that often plague the dynamics of high school hierarchies.

The film’s cast also includes vivid characters played by a competent ensemble of young actors. Austin Abrams takes on the role of Max, Drea’s boyfriend, whose charismatic and desirable exterior masks a more complicated and flawed inner life. Talia Ryder, Rish Shah, Jonathan Daviss, and Maia Reficco round out the main teenage cast, each bringing their distinct style and complexity to the fore.

Stylistically, the film is infused with a colorful, almost hyperreal aesthetic that contrasts with the dark undertones of the narrative, creating an almost surreal vibe that complements the sardonic humor and the psychological games at play. The high school setting is turned into a lush battleground, with an almost dreamlike quality that serves to heighten the experience of watching the plans of Drea and Eleanor unfold.

Furthermore, Do Revenge boasts a soundtrack that effectively captures the emotion and energy of its scenes, ranging from angst to triumph. It makes clever use of contemporary and retro beats to set the mood, ensuring the music is as much a character in the film as the actors themselves.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to maintain a comedic edge while tackling sensitive and serious subjects. It juxtaposes the superficial with the profound, inviting viewers to consider how outward appearances and personas can be misleading and how the quest for retribution can lead to personal growth or further entanglement in cycles of vengeance. It’s this balancing act that makes Do Revenge more than just a satirical take on high school revenge narratives—it’s a reflection on the challenges of coming of age in an era where one's image can be both currency and curse.

As the story unfolds, the bond between Drea and Eleanor is tested, alliances shift, and the true nature of each character is revealed. The journey brings to light the fact that in the quest for revenge, the lines between hero and villain can often blur, and the cost of vengeance may be higher than anticipated. While Do Revenge is predominantly a comedy, it doesn't shy away from allowing its characters to experience real character development and emotional arcs that resonate with audiences.

In summary, Do Revenge takes the well-worn path of high school vendettas and injects it with contemporary flair, sharp writing, and a stylish presentation. The on-screen chemistry of Camila Mendes and Maya Hawke anchors the film, drawing viewers into a world where the teenage microcosm reflects broader societal issues, all wrapped up in a package that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.