“Body Odyssey” is a surreal, boundary-pushing film that melds body horror, sexuality, and the extreme pursuit of physical perfection into a visually stunning yet deeply unsettling experience. This bold and ambitious feature debut from Grazia Tricarico is drenched in stylized imagery and eccentric interludes, but it’s one of those films that will most definitely alienate as many viewers as it intrigues.
Mona (Jacqueline Fuchs) is a fortysomething bodybuilder who continues to chase the unattainable dream of perfection. Obsessed with refining every inch of her physique, Mona’s life is a relentless cycle of training, discipline, and competition, controlled by her overbearing yet oddly compassionate coach (Julian Sands). Things spiral when Mona becomes fixated on a younger man, which throws her highly controlled world into chaos. Her self-discipline begins to crack, with her desires becoming the ruling order of her life.
The film delves into its most compelling themes as the narrative unfolds, exploring the tension between body image, self-perception, and sexuality related to women entrenched in the extreme bodybuilding culture. Fuchs, a professional bodybuilder herself, brings an authentic physicality and emotional depth to the role that grounds her character’s obsessive journey with tangible intensity.
Stylistically, the film comes across as an abstract performance art piece. Bathed in vivid, neon-lit color schemes, it’s definitely visually arresting. Unfortunately, the decision to include bizarre artsy interludes abruptly pulls viewers out of the narrative. Some of these surreal scenes feature explicit sexual content while also veering into uncomfortably weird territory. This adds to the sense of unease, though it is clear Tricarico is using these moments to confront and provoke.
This is why the film’s avant-garde approach to storytelling may be a drawback for some. The performance art aspects and extreme stylistic choices can feel disconnected from the emotional core of the film. The film is packed with striking imagery but often feels like it’s trying too hard to make a statement, which overshadows the more intimate exploration of Mona’s psyche.
All of this makes “Body Odyssey” a challenging watch, but one that is undeniably memorable. It’s a film that raises important questions about body image, perfection, and the sacrifices we make for our ideals, all while pushing the limits of conventional cinema. For those looking for a bold, bizarre, and visually captivating ride, this one offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of obsession.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 