Mona Lisa And The Blood Moon Review : Kate Hudson dazzles with a stellar performance in this intriguing fantasy thriller

Story: Bonnie Hunt, a stripper and single mother, crosses paths with Mona Lisa after she escapes from a mental hospital. Upon discovering Mona Lisa's supernatural abilities, Bonnie finds herself drawn into a life of crime alongside her new companion.

Review: 'Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon' is a quintessential American film that starts strong but ends with a climax that may not resonate with everyone. Despite this, the film keeps you engaged with its gritty and raw depiction of a unique side of New Orleans. The characters, though not always likable, manage to leave an impression with their distinctive quirks. The film's strength lies in its unpredictability, making it difficult to anticipate the plot's progression. The story, which revolves around a girl with psychic powers being used by a woman for criminal activities, is intriguing and maintains interest throughout.

The film begins with Mona Lisa Lee (Jeon Jong Seo), confined in a mental hospital. When a hospital worker is assigned to trim her toenails, Mona Lisa seizes the opportunity to escape. Using only her eye contact and hand motions, she compels the worker to repeatedly stab herself. During her escape, Mona Lisa encounters Fuzz (Ed Skrein), who buys her food, treats her with respect, and forms a bond with her. Soon after, we meet Bonnie Hunt (Kate Hudson), a struggling stripper and single mother, constantly seeking ways to support her son, Charlie. Mona Lisa saves Bonnie from another woman, leading to a connection between them. Bonnie offers Mona Lisa shelter at her home, and upon discovering Mona Lisa's supernatural abilities, embarks on a crime spree with her. However, law enforcement soon catches up with them, altering Mona Lisa's life.

The film becomes immensely watchable thanks to Kate Hudson's fantastic performance as Bonnie Hunt. Hudson's character is a true hustler, whose cunning ways keep her constantly teetering on the edge of the law. Her portrayal is gritty, raw, and incredibly realistic. Jeon Jong Seo delivers a solid performance as Mona Lisa, who can control things with her mind and make her enemies stab and slap themselves with just a look or a gesture. However, one might wish the film explored more of Mona Lisa's character, as the focus shifts significantly once Bonnie enters her life. Craig Robinson also shines as police officer Harold, relentlessly pursuing Mona Lisa to bring her back to the hospital.

This fantasy thriller, more of a stylized quasi-superhero film, engages viewers up to a point but lacks the substance needed to sustain interest until the end. The final airport escape sequence, where Mona Lisa flees to Detroit, comes across as somewhat bizarre. Nevertheless, the film is a bold attempt by director, Ana Lily Amirpour. The night sequences in New Orleans are exceptionally well-shot, with the post-midnight club scenes looking very authentic amidst the haze. The film's original plot is enjoyable, but despite its promise, it ultimately falls short of its potential.