BFI London Films Festival 2024
Film Reviews by Jose Espinas
THE WOLVES ALWAYS COMES AT NIGHT
A poignant exploration of the human spirit and our relationship with nature.
The film transports us to the simple, yet fulfilling life of an animal herder, his wife, and their children.
Set in a remote, untouched landscape, their existence is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life.
The narrative beautifully captures the family’s harmonious relationship with their environment.
They live contentedly, finding joy in the simplicity of their daily routines and the natural world around them.
This idyllic life, however, is disrupted when a fierce storm hits, resulting in the loss of half their herd.
Faced with this devastating blow, the family is forced to move to the city in search of a new beginning.
The film’s strength lies in its ability to make us reflect on our own lives.
Through the herder’s story, we are reminded of the beauty and tranquility that can be found in living close to nature. It challenges us to reconsider the value we place on our often stressful, urban lifestyles.
The herder’s contentment with his choice to live in harmony with nature, loving animals, and respecting the land, stands in stark contrast to the frenetic pace of city living.
The cinematography is stunning, capturing the vast, untouched landscapes that the family calls home.
The director’s choice to focus on the small, intimate moments of the herder’s life adds depth to the narrative, making the viewer feel a part of this unique world.
The performances are heartfelt and genuine, particularly from the actor portraying the herder, whose portrayal of resilience and quiet strength is truly moving.
The Wolves Always Comes at Night is more than just a film; it’s a meditation on the choices we make and the lives we lead.
It invites us to pause and reflect on what truly brings us happiness and fulfillment.
For those feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of modern life, this film offers a gentle reminder of the peace that can be found in simplicity and a closer connection to nature.
BIRD
Andrea Arnold’s BIRD skillfully intertwines gritty realism with whimsical fantasy, a signature of her distinctive style.
Arnold’s direction adeptly portrays the harshness of reality while incorporating moments of surreal escapism, such as Bug’s peculiar plan to sell hallucinogenic toad slime.
The film’s narrative is intentionally ambiguous, encouraging viewers to draw their own conclusions, which adds layers of depth and complexity.
Barry Keoghan excels as Bug, delivering a performance that is both intimidating and endearing.
Nykiya Adams, in her first role as Bailey, brings a genuine portrayal of resilience and vulnerability.
The soundtrack enhances the film’s atmosphere perfectly.
BIRD distinguishes itself through its compelling performances, direction, and unique narrative approach. It offers a critical look at societal issues while telling a hopeful story of resilience and imagination, making it a standout at this year’s Cannes Film Festival to London Film Festival.
THE APPRENTICE
What do we all think of Donald Trump?
What has made him become what and how he is?
Who were the influential people in his life and how he dealt with them?
Such questions answered which will make you think “oh that’s why, that’s the reason why he is what he is and he’s where his at… – comedic, intense, worth watching.
A thought-provoking film that offers a glimpse into the formative years of one of the most controversial figures in modern history.
While it may not fully satisfy all viewers, it succeeds in humanizing its subject and providing a compelling narrative driven by strong performances.
THE END (musical)
The End by Joshua Oppenheimer is a daring and unique post-apocalyptic musical set in an underground bunker.
The film explores themes of guilt, denial, and the human tendency to justify one’s actions.
The plot revolves around elite survivors who isolate themselves with luxury, indifferent to the outside catastrophe, reflecting their psychological and moral decline.
Tilda Swinton delivers a powerful performance, though her singing may not appeal to everyone.
The somber musical numbers fit the film’s tone but don’t highlight her strengths.
Overall, The End is an intense and original film that challenges traditional cinema norms.
