Amat Escalante's "The Untamed"

3/17/2024

Ben

4/2/2024 05:37:53 pm

I'm not sure what Escalante was trying to express or convey with this film. After listening to a brief Q&A, it's clear he operates off of thematic inspirations, rather than a direct, clear story logic. Consequently, the violence portrayed feels dishonest or pointless. Why submit an audience to graphic situations? If there isn't a reason, it's hard to feel or understand the intention. Furthermore, when you challenge an audience's patience, you have to reward with a visceral experience (Saving Private Ryan's beach sequence is hard to watch, but emotionally devastating when you arrive at the conclusion and realize the great sacrifice the young men have made for freedom). Regardless, the performances in The Untamed are honest and powerful, especially considering many within the cast were non-actors. That, combined with the very seductive atmosphere crafted with the unique always satisfying combination of sci-fi and nature, are enough to intrigue throughout.

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