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It’s hard to imagine life without the internet or technology, especially in today’s world. Growing up in the 2000s, I witnessed the internet’s rise as it became the next big thing, and over the years, we’ve come to understand its benefits and drawbacks. One of the undeniable cons is the ease with which someone can be scammed, have their identity stolen, or get their accounts hacked. The latter happens to Hope Goldman, the central character in Austin Peters’ latest true crime drama, Skincare. While it might be a one-time watch for some, the film offers a wild journey from start to finish as we follow the main character on her mission to uncover who’s trying to destroy her life.
Skincare is loosely based on the story of Dawn DaLuise, a celebrity facialist who was falsely accused of a murder-for-hire plot. Peters’ story centers on Hope Goldman (Elizabeth Banks), a renowned aesthetician on the cusp of a major breakthrough with the launch of her own skincare line. However, her success is jeopardized when her email is hacked, and someone begins to sabotage her business.
Skincare review
To complicate matters, a new rival, Angel Vergara (Luis Gerardo Méndez), opens a boutique directly across the street. With the help of her new friend Jordan (Lewis Pullman) and her trustworthy assistant Marine (Michaela Jaé [MJ] Rodriguez), Hope sets off on a wild goose chase to unmask the person behind the relentless online attacks on her reputation.
In an age dominated by social media, it’s all too easy for someone’s reputation to be destroyed in an instant. Especially with the rise of artificial intelligence, distinguishing reality from fabrication has become even more challenging. Skincare delves into one of those frightening scenarios, as Hope’s life spirals out of control—her clients desert her, her talk show special is abruptly canceled, and her brand is tarnished before it even has a chance to launch and flourish.
Banks shines as Hope, portraying a successful woman descending into a spiral of lies, obsession, and a thirst for revenge. Pullman also delivers a strong performance as a self-proclaimed “life coach” eager to cash in on people’s vulnerabilities. The two are at the forefront, but Rodrigues also shines brightly as she leaves a lasting impression, playing the level-headed Marine, making you wish her character had more screen time.
As Bank’s Hope pursues justice no matter the cost, we find ourselves on the edge of our seats, thanks to the film’s effective use of background static noise to heighten tension. Banks’ portrayal of Hope contrasts sharply with the ideals she represents—tranquility, beauty, and self-care. The direction additionally highlights this juxtaposition through the character of Angel, who embodies the Hollywood glitz and glamour in the film.
Skincare might not be for everyone—it’s important to admit that it could bore some viewers. But for fans of true crime-inspired stories, Skincare’s fast-paced and intriguing narrative is sure to entertain. If you catch Skincare in theaters, consider pairing it with a Netflix viewing of John Patton Ford’s Emily the Criminal for a solid double feature.
Grade: B-
Skincare is now playing in theaters.
Skincare
Legendary facialist-to-the-stars Hope Goldman is preparing to enter the next phase of her career by launching her own retail line of skincare products. However, she begins to sense that someone is trying to sabotage her business and destroy her life after she becomes entangled in a series of menacing situations. Consumed with paranoia, Hope goes on an investigation across Hollywood to find out who is responsible and save her business — by any means necessary.
Release Date: August 16, 2024
Director: Austin Peters
Cast: Elizabeth Banks , Lewis Pullman , Luis Gerardo Méndez
