In a blistering takedown of modern fame, the new satire Sacrifice throws Hollywood vanity into the volcanic fires of its own absurdity before committing the ultimate cinematic act of self-immersion.
The film follows a constellation of A-list celebrities—playing heightened versions of themselves—who descend upon a remote tropical island for what they believe is an exclusive wellness retreat. Instead, they find themselves participants in a sinister ancient ritual that demands the ultimate offering: a celebrity sacrifice to appease the island's temperamental volcano.
The Price of Fame
Director Alex Garland sharpens his knives for a ruthless dissection of influencer culture, brand partnerships, and the hollow nature of modern celebrity. The ensemble cast, including genuine A-listers, delivers performances ripe with self-awareness as they navigate hashtags and humanitarian crises with equal superficiality.
Particular standout moments include a social media influencer attempting to livestream the ritualistic proceedings for content, and a heated debate about which celebrity has the highest Q-score—and therefore the most valuable sacrifice.
From Sharp Satire to Molten Mess
The first two acts crackle with wit and observational humour, skewering the entertainment industry's obsession with image and authenticity. However, much like its doomed characters, the film eventually tumbles into the fiery crater of its own premise.
The final descent into literal volcanic chaos represents a dramatic tonal shift that some critics argue undermines the sharp social commentary established earlier. The transition from clever satire to survival thriller proves jarring, leaving the audience wondering whether they're watching a black comedy or a disaster film.
Volcanic Verdict
Sacrifice ultimately delivers a mixed eruption of brilliant moments and misjudged ambitions. While the satire burns bright initially, the final act's literal plunge into the volcano may leave audiences feeling both entertained and slightly bewildered by the abrupt genre shift.
The film serves as both celebration and condemnation of celebrity culture—a fittingly contradictory epitaph for an industry built on image over substance. Whether this intentional narrative collapse represents meta-genius or directorial misstep remains the film's most compelling debate.
