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Harmony Korine’s “Aggro Dr1ft” received a ten-minute standing ovation after its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, despite numerous strikes.
Although some audience members left immediately after the 80-minute experimental action film ended (and at least 25 had left beforehand), Korine’s hardcore fans stayed at the midnight screening for a rousing 10-minute ovation. As Korine greeted the crowd and danced happily, chants of “Harmony! Harmony! Harmony!” sounded. Each time the applause died down, Korine waved his hands in the air like a conductor and the cheering began again.
Twerking strippers, demonic crime bosses chanting “Dance Bitch,” and Travis Scott’s lead role debut are just a taste of what “Aggro Dr1ft” had to offer – which wasn’t for everyone. In fact, the premiere wasn’t the first time “Aggro Dr1ft” sparked strikes. At a press screening Friday evening, at least 20 people were present during the film.
In addition to Korine’s already strong fan base, it was clear that Scott also attracted his followers to the premiere. When the rapper first appeared on screen about halfway through the film, the crowd erupted in applause. However, Scott was not present at the premiere.
The “Spring Breakers” and “Beach Bum” director’s latest feature film is about an assassin on a mission to kill a crime boss, according to the film’s synopsis. Starring alongside Scott is Spanish actor Jordi Mollà, best known for his breakthrough role alongside Penélope Cruz in 1992’s Jamón, Jamón and his work in American projects such as the film Blow and the series Jack Ryan by Tom Clancy”. The cameraman Arnaud Potier shot the film entirely in infrared.
In Variety’s review of “Aggro Dr1ft,” chief film critic Peter Debruge wrote, “This is the first film I’ve seen that doesn’t feel like it’s meant to be watched; Instead, it’s designed to wash over you – or perhaps just unwind on one of the many illuminated screens in your field of vision as your focus vacillates between it and whatever else is competing for your attention. Just as Brian De Palma’s “Scarface” became a cultural reference for the immigrant and hip-hop communities, “Aggro Dr1ft” was able to appeal to an audience that sees itself (or its ambitious self) in its attitude and imagery .”
Earlier on Saturday, Korine showed up to the Aggro Dr1ft press conference wearing a devilish mask inspired by the film and holding a cigar. “We wear the masks because they’re comfortable,” Korine joked. “It gives me a scalp massage.”
Korine has a long history in Venice, having screened his directorial debut “Gummo” at the festival in 1997. Although the film was not initially well received by critics, it received a special mention from the FIPRESCI jury in Venice. “Spring Breakers” also had its world premiere in Venice in 2012 and was awarded the Future Film Festival Digital Award there. “Aggro Dr1ft” will be shown out of competition at this year’s Venice Film Show.
“Aggro Dr1ft” will next screen at TIFF and the New York Film Festival.