Her Smell

Her Smell is a captivating and electric indie drama directed by the American filmmaker Alex Ross Perry and released in 2018. This film delves deep into the volatile world of rock music, examining the complex dynamics of fame, artistry, and personal demons through the lens of its volatile protagonist, Becky Something. The film stars an ensemble cast featuring Elisabeth Moss, Cara Delevingne, Dan Stevens, Amber Heard, Ashley Benson, and others, all serving to conjure up the chaotic yet alluring universe of rock music.

The protagonist, Becky Something, played by the immensely talented Elisabeth Moss, an Howards End and The Handmaid's Tale fame, steers the film from start to finish. Becky is the lead vocalist of the punk rock band, Something She, that's arguably past its glory days. Moss's portrays Becky with such raw intensity and nerve that one cannot help but become consumed by her world, her neuroses, and her addictions. Becky is a burning yet falling star; her talent is undeniable, but her personal life is caught in a hurricane of substance abuse, strained relationships, and uncontrolled fits of rage and paranoia, gravely threatening her career and mental health.

The film brings to the fore the entrancing world of rock 'n' roll and the intoxicating allure of fame that can often lead to self-destruction. However, Her Smell is not just a rock-and-roll drama—it's also a brutally honest character study that doesn't shy away from exploring the depths of its protagonist's internal conflict. The film masterfully encapsulates the tumultuous journey of an artist, outlining not only the glamour and thrill of the music industry, but also the darker side of fame: addiction, pressure, loneliness, and self-destruction.

The supporting characters, played by Delevingne, Stevens, Heard, and Benson amongst others, provide fascinating juxtapositions with Becky's character, revealing different facets of the music industry. Cara Delevingne plays the younger musician Crassie Cassie, who represents a new hopeful chapter in this otherwise grim tale, while Dan Stevens portrays Becky's ex-partner, offering an intimate look at the star's personal life. These characters serve as foils to Becky, as well as crucial pieces of the puzzle that paints a poignant picture of a rockstar's tumultuous life.

Alex Ross Perry's direction needs a special mention, seeing how he constructs a narrative that meanders smoothly between chaotic band performances, quiet introspective moments, and volatile backstage scenes. The movie's non-linear narrative transports you back and forth between the protagonist's past and present, gradually revealing how Becky's rise and fall play out. The film’s cinematography and raw, shaky shots give it an almost documentary-like feel, enhancing the immediacy and intensity of the narrative.

The claustrophobic atmosphere of the film is augmented by the score by Keegan Dewitt. The music serves as a heartbeat to the narrative, thumping and raging in time with Becky's manic episodes, then quieting down during her few moments of introspection. The sound design accurately captures the feel of a punk rock concert, so when combined with the sharp performances and gripping dialogue, you can almost smell the beer-stained stages and smoky backstage rooms.

In this film, Moss portrays an anti-heroine driven to the brink by her own self-destruction. Despite all her flaws, you find yourself rooting for Becky as she battles with her own demons. A lesser actor might have made Becky a caricature, but Moss’s powerhouse performance imbues her character with weight and sympathy. It’s a testament to Moss’s skill that Becky remains compelling throughout, even at her lowest points.

In conclusion, Her Smell is a raw, intense, and audacious film that navigates the rise and fall of a star, exposing the ugly, destructive side of fame. It combines the talents of a dynamic ensemble cast, led by the brilliant Elisabeth Moss, under the meticulous direction of Alex Ross Perry. Though the soundtrack is as punk as it gets, the film is a lot more than a rock tale – it’s a comprehensive psychological portrait of a particular kind of artist. For these reasons, Her Smell serves as a must-watch for fans of dramatic cinema and indie filmmaking alike. Despite the raw and brutal subject matter, it possesses an acute sensitivity that sets it apart in the genre.