Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon

Movie Trailer

Release Date
September 30, 2022

Genre
Fantasy, Thriller, Drama

Cast & Crew

• Jeon Jong-seo as Mona Lisa Lee
• Kate Hudson as Bonnie Hunt
• Craig Robinson as Officer Harold
• Ed Skrein as Fuzz
• Evan Whitten as Charlie

Director
Ana Lily Amirpour

Other Movies Director is Known For

• A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014)
• The Bad Batch (2016)

Producer
John Lesher, Dylan Weathered, Megan Ellison

Writer
Ana Lily Amirpour

Budget
$4 million (estimated)

Production Company
1717 Films, Le Grisbi Productions, XYZ Films

Running Time
106 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Strong language
• Violence
• Some drug use

Movie Story
Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon is a surreal fantasy thriller that follows the journey of Mona Lisa Lee, a young woman with mysterious and supernatural powers. After escaping from a mental institution in New Orleans, Mona Lisa sets out on a wild, nocturnal adventure, where she encounters various characters on the fringes of society.

The film’s narrative is driven by Mona Lisa’s interactions with these characters, including Bonnie, a struggling single mother and exotic dancer who quickly realizes the potential of Mona Lisa’s abilities, and Charlie, Bonnie’s son, who forms a bond with the enigmatic escapee. As Mona Lisa navigates the strange and dangerous world outside the institution, she uses her powers to influence and control the people around her, leading to a series of chaotic and unpredictable events.

Officer Harold, a local cop, becomes entangled in the pursuit of Mona Lisa, adding tension to the story as he tries to unravel the mystery behind her powers and her escape. The film blends elements of fantasy, thriller, and dark comedy, creating a unique atmosphere that is both eerie and captivating.

Set against the vibrant and gritty backdrop of New Orleans, Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon explores themes of freedom, identity, and survival, with Mona Lisa at the center of it all as an otherworldly figure navigating a world that is as unpredictable as she is. The film’s blend of neon-soaked visuals, offbeat characters, and a pulsating soundtrack contribute to its distinctive and immersive style.

Special Effects
The special effects in Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon are used to enhance the supernatural elements of the story, particularly Mona Lisa’s telekinetic powers. These effects are seamlessly integrated into the film, adding to its surreal and fantastical atmosphere without overwhelming the narrative. The use of practical effects, combined with stylized cinematography, helps to create the film’s unique visual flair.

Box Office Performance
Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon had a limited theatrical release, followed by availability on streaming platforms. While it did not achieve significant commercial success, the film was praised for its originality and style, resonating with fans of indie cinema and those who appreciate genre-bending films.

Filming Locations

• New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

Notable Quotes

• “The world’s full of monsters with friendly faces.” – Bonnie Hunt
• “I don’t know what you are, but you’re not normal.” – Officer Harold

Behind-the-Scenes
Director Ana Lily Amirpour is known for her distinct visual style and genre-blending narratives, and Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon continues this trend. The film was shot on location in New Orleans, a city that Amirpour felt was perfect for the film’s moody and otherworldly vibe. The casting of Jeon Jong-seo as Mona Lisa brought a fresh and enigmatic presence to the film, contributing to its offbeat and unpredictable energy.

Awards

• Nominated for Best Film at the 2021 Venice Film Festival (Golden Lion)

Final Verdict
Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon is a visually striking and genre-defying film that stands out for its originality and atmosphere. Ana Lily Amirpour delivers a unique cinematic experience that blends fantasy, thriller, and dark comedy in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Jeon Jong-seo’s performance as the mysterious Mona Lisa is captivating, anchoring the film’s surreal narrative with a sense of intrigue and otherworldly charm. While the film may not appeal to mainstream audiences, it is a must-watch for fans of indie cinema and those who appreciate bold, unconventional storytelling.

IMDb Rating
6.2/10