#TriangleOfSadness
Triangle of Sadness, Ruben Östlund’s satirical black comedy, won the Palme d’Or at Cannes on May 28, 2022, and became one of the year’s most talked-about arthouse films.
The Film
The three-part film follows a celebrity model couple (Harris Dickinson and Charlbi Dean) on a luxury yacht cruise with ultra-wealthy passengers. When a storm and food poisoning create chaos—culminating in a vomit-filled dinner sequence—the ship capsizes, stranding passengers and crew on an island where social hierarchies invert.
Woody Harrelson played the yacht’s drunk, Marxist captain; Dolly de Leon stole the film as Abigail, a Filipino toilet manager who becomes the island’s leader (the only one who can fish, make fires, and survive).
Cultural Impact
The “Captain’s Dinner” scene—where wealthy passengers projectile vomit while debating capitalism vs. communism—became one of cinema’s most visceral, uncomfortable, and darkly funny sequences. Walk-outs at festivals were common.
Östlund’s satire skewered Instagram influencers, billionaire narcissism, and late-stage capitalism with savage precision. The third act’s power reversal—where the working-class crew member holds all the cards—delivered biting social commentary.
Dolly de Leon became a breakout star, earning Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations (though Oscar-snubbed).
Tragedy
Charlbi Dean, who played Yaya, died suddenly at 32 in August 2022, just months before the film’s wide release. Her death cast a shadow over the film’s awards campaign.
Reception & Awards
Critics loved it (72% Rotten Tomatoes), praising Östlund’s audacity. It earned Best Picture, Director, and Original Screenplay Oscar nominations.
The film’s box office ($20 million worldwide) was modest but strong for arthouse cinema. Neon’s marketing leaned into the vomit scene, making it a dare-to-watch event.