*Former GQ writer Mark Anthony Green is making his directorial debut with “Opus,” a psychological thriller that dissects modern-day fandom and the tribalism that comes with it. Green takes audiences on a gripping ride that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
“I feel like fandom has jumped the shark,” Green shared with EUR. “It has gone so far—tribalism has spilled well past just entertainment and these humans that we idolize. We’ve taken ourselves down this very divisive, dare I say, really dark road. My intention with this film is to make a fun ride. I want people to go to a theater, have a great time, and hopefully have a conversation afterward.”
The film follows Ariel, a young journalist invited to the remote compound of a legendary pop star who disappeared from pop culture 30 years ago. Surrounded by a cult of sycophants and intoxicated journalists, she soon finds herself in the middle of his twisted plan. Rising star Ayo Edebiri plays Ariel, caught in a psychological web of deception, loyalty, and fear. Green was adamant about making Ariel a fully realized character, not just a trope.
“It was so important to me that Ariel be a young Black woman—one that reminded me of the Black women in my life: intelligent, thoughtful, and original,” Green explained. “She never does something stupid in this movie. She never falls when the boogeyman is chasing her. She never has a gun and then puts it down. She’s constantly inquisitive and has her antenna up.”
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And for those who appreciate cultural authenticity, Opus delivers. Green ensured that the smallest details were present, like Ariel wearing a head wrap to bed.
“That’s stuff like that, to me, is huge,” he said. “I’ve had so many conversations with young Black women who feel seen in this film, and as a Black director, that’s one of the coolest parts of this experience.”
Green’s transition from journalist to screenwriter and director has been seamless, bringing a unique perspective behind the camera. The way Opus is shot adds another layer of suspense.
“There are several moments where we’re kind of slowly peeking around the corner, which helps build tension,” Green explained. “This film is really Ariel’s journey, and as a journalist, she’s constantly looking for the truth. I played with camera movements to reflect that—it was a blast to do.”
And yes, there are some nods to classic Black cinema. “There’s a moment where we hide something behind Ariel’s hair,” he revealed. “It’s a bit of an homage to Blaxploitation films. Whether it be an Afro pick or Pam Grier pulling a pistol out of her Afro—there’s a history of Black women’s hair playing a role in these films, and I wanted to honor that subtly.”
A24’s Opus is set for release in select theaters on March 14th.
Jill Munroe is a Los Angeles-bred entertainment journalist, producer, and host. Follow her socials @StilettoJill or visit JillMunroe.com. Catch her live M-F on KBLA Talk 1580 from 6PM to 7PM.
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