Darren Aronofsky’s latest film arrived with a lot of secrecy, odd syntax in the title (all lower case with an exclamation point!) and in the four days since release the hyperbole of being called the worst film ever thanks to audiences baffled reaction. But in my opinion, it is captivating, thought-provoking and shocking. An art project worth the time to watch and later investigate the allegory afterwards. Although those familiar with other Aronofsky films may find themselves understanding a lot quicker.

Jennifer Lawrence plays mother, married to Javier Bardem’s character. She has lovingly refurbished and built their home whilst he tries to create poetry. One day they are visited by a man played by Ed Harris and later his wife played by Michelle Pfeiffer. Bardem’s character invites them to stay with them despite them being strangers, much to mother’s bafflement. Events start to occur that become stranger and stranger, putting huge strain on mother and to say more would be to spoil the fun of trying to piece together what is happening.

Jennifer Lawrence is fantastic in the film. The camera often in close up to her face and rarely leaving her for the duration. There are moments when her rage is so visible that you will want to act on her behalf. The supporting cast is great too, and a particular highlight of the film for me was when Brian and Domhnall Gleeson appeared for a small cameo.

Whilst clearly the film has been divisive, I would argue that it is important that there are film makers challenging viewers with stories that are not simple “a to b” and it is not a bad thing if people need to discuss or research the themes of the story they just saw. In fact the only people I would recommend not to watch this film, are people with a low threshold for being shocked as scenes toward the end of the film escalate quickly.