Beau Is Afraid [Includes Digital Copy] [Blu-ray/DVD]

Director: Ari Aster Ari Aster

Overview

When Beau's mother dies, he decides to trek back home and get some closure. Along the way, he is introduced to some of his greatest fears as the seemingly normal trip turns into a surreal adventure. As he struggles with overbearing anxiety, Beau must confront his past and the overbearing mother that may be the root of his problems. Ari Aster writes and directs the comedy-drama co-starring Joaquin Phoenix and Amy Ryan.

Product Details

Release Date:	07/11/2023
UPC:	0031398339991
Original Release:	2023
Rating:	R
Source:	Lions Gate
Language:	English
Time:	2:59:00
Sales rank:	3,880

Cast & Crew

Performance Credits

Joaquin Phoenix	Beau
Parker Posey	Elaine
Amy Ryan	Grace
Hayley Squires	Michael Gandolfini
Nathan Lane	Roger
Michael Gandolfini	Zoe Lister-Jones
Patti LuPone	Beau's Mother
Zoe Lister-Jones	Younger Beau's Mother
Denis Ménochet	Jeeves
Richard Kind	Patti LuPone
Kylie Rogers	Toni
Armen Nahapetian	Teen Beau
Stephen McKinley Henderson	Julia Antonelli
Julia Antonelli	Teen Elaine
Joe Cobden	Brian Galloway
Bradley Fisher	Birthday Boy Stab Man
Ryan S. Hill	Beau's Son
Anana Rydvald	Elaine's Mother
Patrick Kwok-Choon	Hero
Tristan D. Lalla	Costume Designer Orphan
Stephanie Herrera	Martha
Lily Bird	Samanda
Mike Taylor	Cat Lemieux
Cat Lemieux	Orphan Chorus Member #2
Richard Jutras	Doctor
Maev Beaty	Angel/Narrator
Bentley Hughes	Beau's Son
Michael Hearn	Luis Oliva

Technical Credits

Ari Aster

Ari Aster	Screenwriter,Producer,Director
Lars Knudsen	Producer
Elisa Alvares	Executive Producer
Timo Argillander	Executive Producer
Len Blavatnik	Executive Producer
Ann Ruark	Executive Producer
Danny Cohen	Executive Producer

Editorial Reviews

Ari Aster's Beau Is Afraid is a movie that takes the horror genre to new heights with its imaginative approach. It's a film that not only entertains but also challenges viewers to explore complex issues such as anxiety and generational trauma. One of the film's biggest strengths is the outstanding performance of Joaquin Phoenix as the timid, middle-aged man, Beau. Through his nuanced portrayal of a man grappling with extreme anxiety, Phoenix elicits an immediate and overwhelming sense of sympathy. His pain and fear are felt on a deeply personal level. It's a testament to Phoenix's incredible range as an actor that he can convey such complex emotions with such ease and depth. It's nigh impossible not to be moved by Beau's struggle. But it's not just the acting that makes this film so captivating - it's the immersive worlds that Aster has created. Each world is carefully and thoughtfully orchestrated with nearly every element of filmmaking, from the writing to the blocking of even background characters. The result is the wildest ride that will likely leave any viewer breathless. What really sets Beau Is Afraid apart from other horror films is its creative freedom. Aster has a unique voice and style that almost violently shines through. The cinematography is intentional, the editing is dynamic, and the score is hauntingly beautiful. But what's even more impressive is how Aster manages to avoid the typical horror tropes, instead opting for an inventive approach that keeps viewers on their toes. Technical aspect aside, Beau Is Afraid also explores complex issues such as anxiety and generational trauma in a raw and inventive way. The film shows the many perspectives that come into play when assessing relationships intended to be built with love but only left with a residue of trauma. It's a reminder that horror movies can be more than just jump scares and gore - they can also inspire complex conversations that are socially relevant. The film's run time of nearly 3 hours may seem daunting, but it never feels slow or boring. Instead, Beau Is Afraid is a jaw-dropping experience that keeps viewers entertained and engaged from start to finish. It's a melatonin-induced dreamlike experience that is intentionally overstimulating, but makes viewers feel so alive. That being said, due to the film's strong point of view and unapologetic style, it won't be everyone's cup of tea. For fans of the genre and specifically Aster's style, Beau Is Afraid is a must-see film that leaves something to chew on long after the film's conclusion. It's a movie that's both entertaining and thought-provoking, and it's a testament to the creative freedom that Aster had in making this film. For those seeking a horror movie that's not afraid to take risks and challenge viewers, then Beau Is Afraid is definitely worth the time.