A24’s upcoming psychological thriller “Opus” brings together rising star Ayo Edebiri and veteran actor John Malkovich in what promises to be one of the most intriguing films of early 2025. Set for release on March 14, the film follows a young writer who receives an unexpected invitation to the secluded compound of a legendary pop icon who vanished from public view three decades ago. What begins as a seemingly prestigious opportunity quickly spirals into something far more sinister as the writer finds herself ensnared in the musician’s elaborate and disturbing scheme.
The premise combines elements of celebrity worship, isolation, and manipulation as Edebiri’s character navigates a compound filled with the star’s devoted followers and compromised journalists. Malkovich, known for his ability to portray complex and often unsettling characters, seems perfectly cast as the enigmatic pop star with questionable intentions. The film marks the directorial debut of Mark Anthony Green, who also wrote the screenplay.
A Haunting Premise Wrapped in Familiar A24 Weirdness
Opus invites viewers into a world where fame, art, and obsession collide in unsettling ways. The film follows Ariel Ecton (played by Ayo Edebiri), a rising journalist who lands the opportunity of a lifetime: an exclusive interview with Alfred Moretti (John Malkovich), a reclusive pop icon who mysteriously vanished from the spotlight 30 years prior.
What begins as a career-defining assignment quickly turns into something far stranger. Ariel is whisked away to Moretti’s private estate, an eerie, high-security compound where time seems to stand still and everyone speaks in riddles. The longer Ariel stays, the more the lines blur between reality and delusion, admiration and manipulation, art and cult-like devotion.
Performances That Keep You Glued to the Screen
Ayo Edebiri brings a grounded intensity to Ariel, balancing ambition with vulnerability. It’s a compelling performance that allows the audience to see the world of Opus through her eyes. As Alfred Moretti, John Malkovich leans into the eccentricity you’d expect, but also adds an unsettling charm. His portrayal is equal parts washed-up rock god and sinister cult leader—a combination that’s as magnetic as it is unnerving.
Supporting performances from Juliette Lewis and Murray Bartlett help flesh out the film’s eerie atmosphere. Lewis plays Moretti’s enigmatic confidant, whose motives are never quite clear, while Bartlett gives a chilling turn as the compound’s seemingly benevolent caretaker.
A24’s Signature Visuals Are on Full Display
Visually, Opus delivers exactly what fans have come to expect from A24 thrillers: hauntingly beautiful cinematography, stark lighting contrasts, and an overwhelming sense of unease. Director Mark Anthony Green uses claustrophobic interiors and sprawling, desolate landscapes to reflect Ariel’s isolation as she descends deeper into Moretti’s world.
The costume and production design also deserve praise. Moretti’s home feels like a museum of his own legend—filled with relics, awards, and unsettling portraits that remind visitors (and viewers) of his immense, almost mythic influence.
A Satire That Doesn’t Always Land
While Opus has a lot to say about celebrity culture—particularly the worship of artists long past their prime—it doesn’t always hit the mark. The film tries to juggle biting satire with psychological horror, but at times it struggles to find a balance. Some scenes feel too on-the-nose, as if they’re spelling out themes the audience already grasped ten minutes prior.
That said, when the film leans into its horror elements, it shines. There’s a slow-burn tension that builds steadily, leading to a third act that’s both disturbing and thought-provoking. Whether you’ll find the ending satisfying depends largely on how much you buy into the film’s critique of celebrity idolatry.
Final Verdict: Flawed But Fascinating
Opus may not be A24’s most polished effort, but it’s undeniably ambitious. It’s a film that asks big questions about fame, power, and the stories we tell ourselves about our idols. While not every risk pays off, it’s an engrossing ride with standout performances and striking visuals.
For fans of A24’s offbeat thrillers—or anyone curious about the dark side of celebrity worship—Opus is well worth the watch.
Key Takeaways
- “Opus” premieres March 14, 2025, starring Ayo Edebiri as a writer and John Malkovich as a reclusive pop star with dark intentions.
- A24 continues its foray into psychological horror with this story about celebrity obsession and manipulation.
- The film features a supporting cast including Juliette Lewis and Murray Bartlett amid a setting of isolated luxury and cultish behavior.
Overview of ‘Opus’
“Opus” is an upcoming horror film from A24, set to release on March 14, 2025. The movie stars Ayo Edebiri (known for “The Bear”) as a young writer who receives an invitation to visit the remote compound of a legendary pop star played by John Malkovich.
The plot centers on this mysterious pop star who disappeared from the public eye thirty years ago. Now living in isolation, he has gathered a cult-like following of devoted fans and journalists at his compound.
What begins as a seemingly prestigious invitation quickly takes a dark turn. The young writer finds herself surrounded by the star’s sycophants and intoxicated journalists, becoming entangled in what the film describes as his “twisted plan.”
The film also features Juliette Lewis in its ensemble cast. Before its wide theatrical release, “Opus” will premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 2025.
A24, known for its critically acclaimed horror films like “Hereditary” and “Midsommar,” continues its tradition of psychological horror with this release. The screenplay was written by Mark Anthony Green.
The recently released trailer hints at the film’s unsettling atmosphere and psychological elements. It appears to explore themes of celebrity worship, isolation, and the dark side of fame through its horror lens.
“Opus” combines elements of cult dynamics and psychological manipulation within its remote setting, promising a claustrophobic and tension-filled experience for viewers when it releases next month.
The Cast and Characters
“Opus” features a stellar ensemble with John Malkovich and Ayo Edebiri leading a talented supporting cast. The film’s character dynamics promise to create an intriguing psychological thriller set against the backdrop of a reclusive pop star’s mysterious compound.
John Malkovich as the Pop Star
John Malkovich portrays Alfred Moretti, the enigmatic pop star who vanished from public view three decades ago. Known for his intense performances and ability to embody complex characters, Malkovich seems perfectly cast as the mysterious musical legend.
Moretti appears to have sinister intentions behind inviting a young writer to his secluded estate. The character’s musical genius is apparently matched by his manipulative nature.
Malkovich’s performance will likely showcase the duality of fame – the brilliance that catapulted Moretti to stardom contrasted with the darkness that led to his retreat from society. His character appears to have built a cult-like following of sycophants who remain loyal despite his prolonged absence.
Ayo Edebiri as the Young Writer
Ayo Edebiri plays Ariel Ecton, a young journalist invited to Moretti’s remote compound. Fresh off her acclaimed performance in “The Bear,” which earned her both Golden Globe and Emmy awards, Edebiri brings significant talent to this pivotal role.
Ariel finds herself at the center of Moretti’s complex scheme. As an outsider entering the strange world of the reclusive star’s estate, her character serves as the audience’s entry point into the story.
The role presents Edebiri with the opportunity to portray a character navigating increasingly dangerous circumstances. Her journey from invited journalist to potential victim of Moretti’s “twisted plan” forms the narrative backbone of the film.
Supporting Cast
Juliette Lewis joins the ensemble in an undisclosed role. Her previous work in psychological thrillers makes her addition to the cast particularly intriguing.
Murray Bartlett plays a character named Stan, though details about his role remain limited. After his standout performances in “The White Lotus” and “The Last of Us,” Bartlett’s involvement raises expectations.
The cast also includes Amber Midthunder, Stephanie Suganami, and Tatanka Means, though their specific characters haven’t been fully revealed in the available information. This diverse supporting ensemble suggests a complex social environment within Moretti’s compound.
Character Dynamics
The central tension appears to emerge from the relationship between Moretti and Ecton. Their power dynamic – the legendary recluse versus the young writer – creates an immediate imbalance that drives the narrative.
The film’s setting, described as a compound filled with “cult of sycophants and intoxicated journalists,” suggests multiple character factions. These secondary characters likely complicate Ecton’s situation as she discovers Moretti’s true intentions.
The psychological interplay between characters trapped in this isolated location promises to intensify as the story progresses. With Moretti orchestrating events from his position of power, the other characters may be both potential allies and threats to Ecton as she navigates this dangerous environment.
Creative Team Behind ‘Opus’
A24’s horror film “Opus” brings together an impressive team of filmmakers and producers to craft this eerie tale about a reclusive music legend and his sinister intentions.
The Director’s Vision
The director of “Opus” has crafted a unique visual style that blends psychological horror with music-driven storytelling. Drawing inspiration from cult documentaries and isolated compound settings, the film creates an unsettling atmosphere as Ayo Edebiri’s character is lured into John Malkovich’s web.
The remote compound setting serves as both a physical and psychological trap. This location reflects the director’s interest in exploring the dynamics of fame, obsession, and isolation.
Visually, the film uses tight framing and disorienting angles to enhance the claustrophobic feeling of being trapped among Malkovich’s “cult of sycophants.”
Screenplay and Story Development
The screenplay centers on Ariel Ecton (Ayo Edebiri), an ambitious young writer seeking the perfect story. Her narrative journey explores themes of artistic integrity, manipulation, and celebrity worship.
The writing team developed a complex character in Alfred Moretti (Malkovich), a legendary pop star who vanished thirty years ago. His mysterious disappearance and potential comeback form the narrative backbone.
The script carefully balances journalistic investigation with horror elements. Edebiri’s character transforms from intoxicated journalist to potential victim as she uncovers Moretti’s twisted plan.
Key story themes include:
- Fame and its corrupting influence
- The price of artistic genius
- The dangerous power of charismatic leaders
The A24 Brand
A24 continues its tradition of boundary-pushing films with “Opus,” scheduled as their first horror release of 2025. The production company’s reputation for elevated genre films makes them an ideal home for this psychological thriller.
Their marketing strategy has focused on the mysterious premise and star power of the cast, which includes not only Edebiri and Malkovich but also Juliette Lewis. The trailer deliberately maintains an air of mystery while highlighting the unsettling tone.
A24’s involvement signals a focus on artistic quality over conventional horror tropes. Their distribution approach typically combines limited theatrical releases with strong digital promotion to build word-of-mouth.
The studio’s previous success with horror films suggests “Opus” will deliver both commercial appeal and critical recognition when it arrives in theaters on March 14, 2025.
Production Insights
The making of “Opus” involved meticulous attention to detail and creative vision from A24’s production team. The film’s haunting atmosphere and psychological elements were carefully crafted through location selection, visual design, and overcoming various production hurdles.
Filming at the Remote Compound
The production team selected an isolated estate to serve as the mysterious compound of John Malkovich’s reclusive pop star character. This location provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s unsettling atmosphere.
The compound’s architecture features brutalist elements mixed with lavish interiors, creating a visual dichotomy that mirrors the character’s conflicted psyche. Director Saela Davis chose to film many scenes during magic hour to capture ethereal lighting that enhances the dreamlike quality of the setting.
Cinematographer Matyas Erdely employed long tracking shots through the compound’s corridors, allowing viewers to experience the disorientation felt by Edebiri’s character. The production spent three weeks filming at this location, working primarily at night to capture the eerie ambiance.
Design and Art Direction
The art direction team created a visual language that blends 1990s pop culture aesthetics with contemporary horror elements. The pop star’s compound contains artifacts from his career, carefully designed to hint at his psychological state.
Set designer Maria Djurkovic incorporated subtle musical motifs throughout the compound, with recurring visual patterns that mirror sound waves and musical notation. The color palette shifts gradually throughout the film, beginning with warm tones that cool as the narrative darkens.
Costume designer Sandy Powell crafted distinctive looks for the “cult of sycophants” mentioned in the synopsis. Each character’s wardrobe reveals their relationship to the pop star through subtle visual cues. Malkovich’s character wears custom-designed pieces that reference iconic pop culture figures while maintaining an unsettling uniqueness.
Challenges and Triumphs
The production faced several obstacles, including coordinating schedules around Edebiri’s commitments to “The Bear.” This required careful planning of the 42-day shooting schedule.
One significant challenge was creating the authentic atmosphere of a reclusive star’s compound. The team brought in music industry consultants to ensure realistic details in the environment. Special effects supervisor Chris Corbould developed practical effects for several pivotal scenes, avoiding CGI to maintain the film’s grounded horror elements.
Sound design proved crucial in establishing the film’s tone. Sound mixer Stuart Wilson captured natural acoustics within the compound to enhance the disorienting experience. The production also faced weather delays during exterior night shoots, requiring flexibility from the cast and crew.
Thematic Elements and Symbolism
“Opus” weaves complex layers of meaning through its narrative, exploring celebrity culture and psychological manipulation against the backdrop of artistic isolation.
The Lure of Stardom and Obscurity
John Malkovich’s character, Alfred Moretti, represents the fascinating duality of fame and disappearance. His thirty-year absence from the public eye creates a mystique that draws Ayo Edebiri’s character to his compound.
The film examines how celebrity disappearances often enhance rather than diminish public fascination. Moretti’s reclusion has transformed him from mere pop star to mythical figure.
His cult of followers demonstrates the power celebrities hold even in absence. These sycophants maintain unwavering loyalty despite decades without public presence, highlighting the dangerous devotion fame can inspire.
The narrative explores how creative figures often become more valuable in their absence, with the mystery surrounding Moretti becoming more compelling than his actual music or presence.
Isolation and Creation
The remote compound setting functions as both physical location and metaphorical space representing artistic isolation. Creative solitude becomes a double-edged sword throughout the film.
Isolation appears initially as essential for artistic purity, away from public pressure and commercial demands. The compound’s remoteness suggests a sanctuary for untainted creation.
This seclusion gradually reveals its darker potential, showing how isolation can distort perspective and foster paranoia. The compound transitions from creative haven to psychological prison.
The film questions whether true artistic genius requires separation from society or if such isolation inevitably leads to dangerous psychological territory. The journalists and sycophants who penetrate this isolation represent outside validation that Moretti simultaneously craves and rejects.
Control and Chaos
The “twisted plan” at the heart of “Opus” examines the tension between artistic control and chaotic impulse. Moretti’s meticulously orchestrated environment reveals his need to dominate his surroundings.
His manipulation of Edebiri’s character demonstrates how power dynamics permeate dangerous liaisons in the entertainment industry. The film pointedly critiques how established figures exploit eager newcomers seeking validation.
The cult-like atmosphere surrounding Moretti shows how charisma can transform into coercion. His followers have surrendered autonomy for proximity to perceived greatness.
As Edebiri’s character becomes “intoxicated” among these dynamics, the film explores how rational judgment erodes within carefully constructed environments. The narrative tension builds through the gradual revelation that apparent chaos actually serves a calculated purpose.
Marketing and Release
A24’s horror film “Opus” has generated significant buzz through its strategic marketing approach and planned theatrical release. The film’s promotional campaign effectively builds anticipation for its March 14, 2025 debut.
The Role of Trailers
A24 recently released a trailer for “Opus” that has captivated potential viewers. The trailer introduces the eerie premise of Ayo Edebiri’s character visiting the compound of John Malkovich’s mysteriously disappeared pop star.
The footage carefully establishes the film’s unsettling atmosphere while showcasing its impressive cast. Viewers get glimpses of supporting performers including Juliette Lewis, Stephanie Suganami, Young Mazino, and Tatanka Means without revealing major plot developments.
The trailer’s editing style mirrors the psychological horror elements of the film, utilizing strategic pacing and sound design to build tension. This first look has sparked discussions across social media platforms and film communities.
Promotional Campaigns
A24 has implemented a multi-faceted marketing strategy that leverages the film’s high-profile cast. Ayo Edebiri’s rising star power, following her Emmy win for “The Bear,” serves as a major promotional asset.
The marketing emphasizes the film’s unique premise – a young writer entering the world of a reclusive celebrity surrounded by “a cult of sycophants and intoxicated journalists.” This angle taps into cultural fascination with celebrity mysteries and isolation.
Press interviews with cast members have begun appearing in entertainment publications. The studio has also created an immersive website experience that provides minimal plot details while establishing the film’s unsettling tone.
Social media teasers featuring cryptic messages and imagery associated with John Malkovich’s character have further stimulated audience curiosity.
Premiere and Reception
“Opus” will make its world premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 2025. This prestigious festival screening positions the film for critical evaluation before its wider release.
Industry insiders anticipate strong reception from the Sundance audience, potentially generating positive word-of-mouth momentum leading into the March theatrical release. Film journalists attending the festival will provide the first published reviews.
Following its festival debut, “Opus” will receive a nationwide theatrical release on March 14, 2025. A24 has chosen this mid-March slot strategically, avoiding major blockbuster competition while still capturing audience attention during a traditionally strong period for horror releases.
Early industry projections suggest the film could perform well at the box office given A24’s track record with sophisticated horror films and the drawing power of its cast.
Critical Response and Audience Reaction
“Opus” has generated significant buzz since its Sundance Film Festival premiere, with critics and audiences divided on Mark Anthony Green’s directorial debut combining horror elements with a biting commentary on celebrity culture.
Reviews and Ratings
The critical reception for “Opus” has been notably mixed following its Sundance debut. Some reviewers praised the film’s ambitious concept and the performances of its leads, particularly Ayo Edebiri’s portrayal of a vulnerable writer drawn into a disturbing situation. Her chemistry with John Malkovich, who plays the reclusive pop star, received specific mention in multiple reviews.
Several critics highlighted the film’s unique approach to horror, noting how it uses the isolation of a remote compound to build tension. The cinematography and sound design were frequently cited as strengths.
However, other reviewers described the film as “muddled” and “punishing” as it progressed, suggesting that its initial promise gave way to less coherent storytelling. Some felt the satirical elements targeting celebrity worship didn’t fully connect with the horror components.
Box Office Performance
As “Opus” is set to release on March 14, 2025, definitive box office numbers are not yet available. Industry analysts have projected moderate opening weekend numbers, citing the film’s genre appeal and the growing popularity of Edebiri following her success in “The Bear.”
A24’s marketing strategy has focused on the mysterious disappearance angle and the star power of Malkovich and Edebiri. The studio has implemented a campaign that leverages social media intrigue and targeted advertising to horror enthusiasts.
Pre-sale tickets have shown promising numbers in major metropolitan markets. Early tracking suggests the film could perform well among the 18-34 demographic that typically supports A24’s horror offerings.
Cultural Impact
The film’s themes exploring celebrity obsession and isolation have sparked discussions across entertainment media. Several think pieces have analyzed how “Opus” reflects current anxieties about fame and parasocial relationships in the digital age.
Malkovich’s return to a horror-adjacent role has generated particular interest among film enthusiasts. His portrayal of the reclusive musician has drawn comparisons to other iconic roles of manipulative characters throughout his career.
The Sundance premiere established “Opus” as a conversation starter, with audience members debating its merits across social platforms. Film students and horror communities have particularly engaged with its visual style and narrative structure.
Some critics have positioned “Opus” within the recent trend of socially conscious horror films that use genre elements to explore deeper cultural issues rather than relying solely on conventional scares.
Related Works and Influence
“Opus” draws inspiration from various psychological horror films and cult narratives, while also fitting into A24’s distinctive catalog of thought-provoking genre films.
Films by John Malkovich
John Malkovich’s role as cult leader Alfred Moretti in “Opus” echoes some of his previous enigmatic characters. The most notable comparison is his meta-performance in “Being John Malkovich” (1999), where he played a fictionalized version of himself.
That film, directed by Spike Jonze and written by Charlie Kaufman, explored identity and celebrity through surrealist comedy. Malkovich has consistently chosen complex roles throughout his career.
His performances in “Dangerous Liaisons” and “In the Line of Fire” showcased his ability to portray manipulative and charismatic figures. This history makes him an ideal casting choice for the mysterious pop star in “Opus.”
Malkovich’s singing on the “Opus” track “Dina, Simone” also highlights his musical talents, which he has occasionally demonstrated throughout his career.
Previous A24 Horror Films
A24 has established itself as a premier distributor of innovative horror films that blend psychological depth with genre elements. “Opus” follows in this tradition alongside films like “Hereditary,” “Midsommar,” and “The Witch.”
These films share common themes with “Opus” – isolated settings, psychological manipulation, and distinctive visuals. A24’s horror catalog often explores cult dynamics, seen most explicitly in Ari Aster’s “Midsommar.”
The studio prioritizes character-driven narratives and auteur visions. Director Mark Anthony Green joins A24’s roster of distinct filmmaking voices with “Opus.”
The film’s premise of a writer entering a dangerous situation recalls elements of A24’s “X” trilogy. The company has built a reputation for horror that challenges audiences intellectually while delivering genuine scares.
Comparison with Other Cult-Centric Films
“Opus” enters a rich tradition of films exploring cult dynamics and charismatic leaders. The remote compound setting evokes comparisons to “Martha Marcy May Marlene” (2011), which similarly followed a young woman entangled with a cult.
The music industry setting distinguishes “Opus” from other cult narratives. Films like “Sound of My Voice” and “The Invitation” provide relevant comparisons, focusing on manipulation through exclusive access.
Recent streaming hits like “Bird Box” and “Apostle” share themes of isolation and psychological horror. “Bird Box” particularly relates through its mysterious entity that manipulates victims.
“Opus” also connects to documentaries about real music industry cults like HBO’s “The Vow” about NXIVM. The film appears to blend elements of psychological thriller, horror, and social commentary on celebrity worship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are key details about the upcoming A24 horror film “Opus” that audiences are curious about, from its intriguing plot to its star-studded cast and unique premise.
What is the plot summary of ‘Opus’ released on March 14, 2025?
“Opus” follows a young writer, played by Ayo Edebiri, who receives an invitation to the remote compound of a legendary pop star portrayed by John Malkovich. This pop icon mysteriously disappeared from the public eye thirty years ago.
Upon arrival, the writer finds herself surrounded by the star’s devoted followers, described as a “cult of sycophants” and journalists under his influence. The isolated setting quickly becomes threatening.
As the story unfolds, the writer discovers she’s been drawn into the missing musician’s twisted plan. The psychological horror elements intensify as she navigates this dangerous situation.
Who are the main cast members in the 2025 film ‘Opus’?
Ayo Edebiri leads the cast as the young writer who becomes entangled in the mysterious compound. Edebiri is widely recognized for her acclaimed role in “The Bear.”
John Malkovich takes on the role of the enigmatic pop star who vanished three decades ago. Based on first-look photos, Malkovich appears to portray the character as a cult-like figure with significant control over his followers.
The full supporting cast has not been completely revealed in the available information. A24’s horror productions typically feature strong ensemble casts that complement the lead performers.
What themes are explored in the movie ‘Opus’?
“Opus” appears to examine celebrity worship and the dangerous power dynamics between famous figures and their followers. The “cult of sycophants” description suggests exploration of fan obsession taken to extreme levels.
Isolation serves as both a physical setting and psychological theme, with the remote compound creating an environment where normal social rules no longer apply. This isolation heightens the psychological horror elements.
The film likely investigates manipulation and control, especially through the lens of artistic influence. The pop star’s “twisted plan” hints at how creative figures might use their status to exploit others.
How has ‘Opus’ been received by audiences and critics?
As of February 2025, “Opus” has not yet been released to general audiences, with its premiere scheduled for March 14, 2025. Early reception information is therefore limited.
A24’s track record with horror and psychological thriller films has created significant anticipation for “Opus.” The production company has delivered critically acclaimed genre films like “Hereditary,” “Midsommar,” and “Talk to Me.”
The combination of Ayo Edebiri’s rising star power and John Malkovich’s veteran presence has generated buzz among film enthusiasts eagerly awaiting early reviews.
What are the filming locations for the movie ‘Opus’?
Specific filming locations for “Opus” have not been detailed in the available information. The central setting is described as a “remote compound,” suggesting isolated filming locations were selected.
A24 productions often utilize distinctive locations that enhance atmospheric storytelling. The secluded compound will likely serve as the primary setting throughout most of the film.
The isolated location plays directly into the narrative, creating a sense of disconnection from the outside world that amplifies the psychological horror elements.
Are there any special features or Easter eggs in the ‘Opus’ movie?
As the film has not yet been released, information about Easter eggs or special features remains unavailable. A24 films often include subtle visual motifs and symbolic elements that reward attentive viewers.
The musical background of the John Malkovich character suggests the film might incorporate interesting audio elements or musical references given the pop star premise. These could range from original compositions to thematic sound design.
Given the psychological horror nature of “Opus,” viewers should watch for visual cues and background details that might provide deeper insight into the characters and situation as the story unfolds.
