I Can’t Decide If Mountainhead Is The Funniest Or Scariest Movie Of The Year. Why It Makes It Better

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I recently saw *Mountainhead* after its release, and honestly, I’m still trying to decide if it was hilarious or terrifying! Right after that shocking ending, while I was processing everything about those ridiculously out-of-touch billionaire characters – played by an amazing cast, by the way – I just kept flip-flopping between thinking it was the funniest or scariest movie I’d seen all year.

I’ve been giving this some thought, and I’ve realized something: the premise of this movie – four tech billionaires on a getaway while the world suffers because of their choices – actually makes it really compelling. Here’s why…

On One Hand, It’s A Satirical Comedy That Doesn’t Hold Back

So, what’s the deal with the humor in *Mountainhead*? Essentially, Jesse Armstrong doesn’t pull any punches when portraying billionaires. He depicts them as incredibly selfish, almost comically cruel, and like overgrown children who are completely focused on gaining more power and wealth. Compared to his hugely popular series *Succession*, which ended recently, Armstrong is much more direct with his critique of the wealthy elite – and it’s incredibly effective. It really lands.

The film features incredibly rich characters – played by Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman, Ramy Youssef, and Corey Michael Smith – who are so disconnected from reality, ridiculous, and unpleasant (even the character we’re meant to support, Jeff Abredazi, played by Youssef). This makes for a funny and insightful look at these people, one that doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable moments. It’s often shocking, but consistently humorous.

On The Other, It’s A Terrifying Thriller That’s Way Too Relevant In Today’s Times

While *Mountainhead* is genuinely funny – especially its portrayal of billionaires and their relentless pursuit of power, wealth, and even eternal life – it’s also deeply unsettling. Even before the plot turns to actively harming someone for financial gain, shifting the tone from a film like *The Big Short* to something closer to *The Shining*, the movie creates a consistently creepy atmosphere.

There’s a lot happening: from a company creating undetectable deepfakes, to a catastrophic event unfolding, and even someone trying to achieve immortality through technology. What’s truly unsettling is how closely these events mirror real-world possibilities – we’re already on the verge of these things becoming reality, except for the ability to upload our minds.

This Mixture Of Tones Gives The Best Of Both Worlds

This is a standout movie on HBO Max because it expertly blends humor and horror. I initially debated whether it was more funny or frightening, but now I realize the two elements work together beautifully, making it a truly enjoyable, original, and memorable film.

What makes *Mountainhead* so enjoyable is its perfect balance of scary and funny moments. It’s never overwhelmingly frightening because a silly scene or joke always arrives to lighten the mood, and it’s never just a comedy, because serious, realistic elements quickly remind you what’s at stake. It’s a surprisingly effective combination!

HBO Max offers a wide range of popular movies and shows like *Mountainhead* and *Succession*, with plans starting at $9.99 per month (Basic With Ads). You can also save money by choosing an annual subscription. See the deal here.

Even though *Mountainhead* didn’t win the Emmy for best movie – *Rebel Ridge* took that prize – it’s still a uniquely thrilling, disturbing, and memorable film.

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2025-09-20 14:08