19/47
Two teenagers dream of escaping the bleakness of their hometown and form a unique bond at a local modeling school. The promise of a better life drives the girls to abuse their bodies in increasingly extreme ways. First of all, I would like to say that “Akiplesa” (Toxic) was without a doubt the crowning glory of this year’s Locarno Film Festival. Saule Bliuvaite has masterfully crafted a narrative that will resonate with festival audiences, delivering a story that speaks to their sensibilities in a style they can readily embrace. I was already an admirer of Bliuvaite’s work, having been captivated by her short film “Limuzinas” (2020). My confidence in her ability as a director was unshakable. However, I must confess to feeling a twinge of surprise when I noticed the “horror” label next to the “coming-of-age” and “drama” labels in the festival program. Describing the film without giving too much away is a challenge, but Bliuvaite has risen to the challenge with remarkable finesse. The portrayal of the fears etched into the very core of 14-year-old adolescents, from shaking hands to the fading sparkle in their eyes, is deeply moving, thanks in no small part to the talented young cast. Their performances are raw and authentic, capturing the vulnerability and confusion of adolescence with heartbreaking honesty. One can only hope that after its festival run, the film will secure a wide distribution deal that will allow it to reach a global audience. The film deserves to be seen and appreciated, for its unsparing portrayal of the complexities of adolescence and the insidious nature of societal pressures. Bliuvaite’s direction is poised and confident, demonstrating a deft knack for weaving the film’s darker elements with moments of tenderness and vulnerability. The film’s visual style is striking, its muted color palette and strong compositions creating an atmosphere of unease and foreboding. The score, a haunting mix of electronic and orchestral elements, further enhances the film’s emotional impact. A film that stays with you long after the credits roll, ‘Akiplesa’ is a testament to the power of cinema to explore the darkest corners of the human experience with sensitivity, insight, and a touch of poetic grace. It is a film that deserves to be seen and discussed, and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can find a way to persevere and ultimately triumph.