42/17
Two teenagers dream of escaping the gloom of their hometown and form a unique bond at a local modeling school, where the promise of a better life forces the girls to abuse their bodies in increasingly extreme ways. First of all, I want to assure you that "Akiplesa" (Toxic) was undoubtedly the crown jewel of this year’s Locarno Film Festival. Saule Bliuvaite has masterfully crafted a story that resonates with the festival audience and a narrative that speaks to their sensibilities in a style they can easily embrace. I was already an admirer of Bliuvaite’s work when I was captivated by her short film "Limuzinas" (2020). My confidence in her directorial abilities was unwavering. However, I must admit to my surprise when I saw the "Horror" tag, "Coming-of-Age" and "Drama" in the festival programme. Describing a film without revealing spoilers is a challenge, but Bliuvaite has risen to the occasion with remarkable finesse. The film, which depicts the fears of 14-year-olds, etched into their very being, from trembling hands to the fading spark in their eyes, is deeply affecting thanks to the talented young actors. Their performances are raw and authentic, capturing the vulnerability and confusion of adolescence with heartbreaking honesty. One can only hope that the film will receive a wide distribution deal after the festival, allowing it to reach a global audience. It deserves to be seen and appreciated for its unflinching portrayal of the complexities of adolescence and the insidious nature of societal pressures. Bliuvaite’s direction is assured and confident, and he skillfully balances the film’s darker elements. There are moments of tenderness and vulnerability. The film’s visual style is striking, with its subdued color palette and stark compositions creating an atmosphere of unease and foreboding. The score, a haunting blend of electronic and orchestral elements, further enhances the film’s emotional impact. « Akiplesa » is a film that lingers in the mind long after the end credits have rolled. It is a testament to the power of cinema to explore the darkest corners of human experience with sensitivity, insight, and a touch of poetic grace. It is a film that deserves to be seen and discussed, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can find a way to endure and ultimately triumph.