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While the settings are simply gorgeous, skilfully lit and shot with expert virtual camerawork, the characters have an oddly under-rendered digital quality that's transcended by their naturalistic movement and vocalisations. And there's also a nice sense of playfulness, even in difficult situations. Although communication between these species isn't always very smooth, they continually learn from each other. Along with animals's voices, the film is accompanied by a lovely score by Rihards Zalupe and Zilbalodis.

Narrative moments may sometimes feel contrived or surreal, but this is actually a fable with a lovely message about how disparate creatures need each other. Watching these animals, many of whom are natural enemies, team up and save each others' lives is funny, cleverly detailed and often thrilling. And because no one is talking, the film has an almost hypnotic effect, drawing us deep into its world while bringing out surprising emotions.

themes, violence

11.Nov.24

Wong gives Dominic an impulsiveness that's likeable because he is also unusually tender. This makes his strained interaction with Hui's quietly confident Man far more involving than expected. It also extends to Man's children: lonely doctor Yuet and conflicted priest Ben, beautifully played by Wai and Chu, respectively. The issues this family grapples with are profoundly moving, touching on a range of resonant themes. And Dominic also faces big decisions with his girlfriend Jade (Chau).

While the narrative remains gently involving, and often hilarious in its observations, there are sharply pointed details peppered throughout scenes that explore Taoist philosophies, including harsh sexism. Gender roles also play into other areas of the story, as do the strengths and hazards of family responsibilities. And through it all is the tension between emotions for the living and the departed, leaving us to think about how we prioritise relationships and traditions.

themes, language, grisliness, sexuality

1.Nov.24

As always, Huppert plays her character with unflinching honesty, never giving away too much. It's unclear whether Iris genuinely knows how ineffective her teaching is, or perhaps she is simply connecting with these people in a way that earns her a living without her needing to actually do much work. The people she encounters all feel thoroughly authentic, as if they have their own lives off-screen and are intrigued by this mysterious foreigner.

In the end, the film feels like an exploration of survival, as Iris finds a way to eat and a home to live in, plus a bit of mental stimulation. Perhaps that's all she needs to be happy, as there's a glimpse at her distress when she begins to worry that her fragile life might be about to collapse. And maybe her company also provides some happiness for her students, if for no other reason than that she keeps them guessing about who she is and why she lives in this foreign land.

themes

8.Nov.24