49/10
Two teenagers, dreaming of escaping the bleakness of their hometown, form a unique bond at a local modeling school, where the promise of a better life leads the girls to abuse their bodies in increasingly extreme ways. First of all, let me say that "Akiplesa" (Toxic) was undoubtedly the crowning glory of this year’s Locarno Film Festival. Saule Bliuvaite masterfully crafted a narrative that resonated with the festival audience, delivering a story that spoke to their sensibilities in a style they could easily embrace. I had already been an admirer of Bliuvaite’s work, having been captivated by her short film "Limuzinas" (2020). My confidence in her directorial skills was unwavering. However, I must admit that I was surprised when I noticed "Horror" The film is tagged with the "Coming-of-Age" and "Drama" tags in the festival program. Describing the film without revealing spoilers is a challenge, but Bliuvaite rose to the occasion with remarkable finesse. The film, which depicts the fears of 14-year-olds, from trembling hands to the fading sparkle in their eyes, is deeply moving, thanks in no small part to its talented young cast. Their performances are raw and authentic, capturing the vulnerability and confusion of adolescence with heartbreaking honesty. One can only hope that the film secures a wide distribution deal following its festival run, 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 confident and assured, showing a deft hand between the film’s darker elements and its moments of tenderness and vulnerability. The film’s visual style is stunning, with its muted color palette and stark compositions creating a mood 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 will linger in the mind long after the last of the crew has been brought in. It 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, as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can find a way to persevere and ultimately triumph.