Triangle of Sadness

Triangle of Sadness is a film that explores the fascinating and complex world of the haves versus the have-nots. Directed by Ruben Östlund, the movie takes a satirical approach to the fashion industry and the social constructs that surround it.

Released in 2022, and now available on Amazon Prime in some countries, the film stars Harris Dickinson, Henrik Dorsin, Charlbi Dean, Dolly de Leon, Zlatko Burić, Vicki Berlin, and Woody Harrelson.

A movie that largely flew under the radar, Triangle of Sadness also received three nominations at the 95th Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Director and Best Original Screenplay.

But what is it all about, and is it worth watching?

What Is Triangle of Sadness About?

The plot of Triangle of Sadness follows two fashion models, Yaya and Carl, as they navigate their relationship and the dynamic between power and beauty.

Both accept that in order to further their careers, they are better off staying together and take the opportunity to sail on a luxury yacht in exchange for giving the trip Instagram exposure.

Catering to the uber-wealthy, the trip quickly turns chaotic as the crew faces a series of unexpected challenges, leading to a profound and intense exploration of the darker side of humanity.

What happens to people when the thing that made them rich is suddenly worthless in the face of a crisis? What happens to those considered ‘less than' when they suddenly benefit from the transfer of power?

When everything turns on it's head, Triangle of Sadness takes a mirror to the world we live in and pokes a lot of fun at it.

Triangle of Sadness Official Trailer

Is Triangle of Sadness Worth Watching?

One of the most striking elements of the film is its tone. Östlund manages to balance biting satire with genuine empathy for his characters, creating a complex and nuanced portrayal of an industry that is often reduced to its most superficial elements.

The film explores themes of vanity, power dynamics, and the cost of success in a way that feels both relevant and thought-provoking.

The acting and characters in the film are equally impressive. Both Yaya (Charlbi Dean) and Carl (Harris Dickinson) are portrayed with depth and complexity by their respective actors, providing a much-needed human perspective on an industry that often fetishizes perfection.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, bringing a sense of authenticity and lived experience to their roles, particularly Dolly De Leon who received Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations for her supporting role as Abigail.

The direction of Triangle of Sadness is superb, with Östlund expertly navigating the film's many tonal shifts and thematic explorations. The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking shots of the yacht and its surroundings providing a sense of both awe and claustrophobia.

Overall, there's a reason why this film was Oscar nominated in the Best Picture category. It is a powerful and thought-provoking film that manages to explore complex themes while remaining engaging and entertaining.

While it is not without its flaws, particularly in its pacing, it is an impressive achievement that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it.

Where Was Triangle of Sadness Filmed?

Filming for the movie took place in two main locations. The first was for all of the interior yacht scenes which were shot in a studio in Sweden.

The second main location was the beach where the characters ended up. That was actually Chiliadou beach in Evoia, Greece.

Additional cruise outdoor scenes were filmed in Katakolo, Greece on the Christina O, the yacht formerly owned by Aristotle Onassis and Jackie Kennedy.