This film focuses on a family who live on an isolated island - they are not feral, but cut off from society and it's norms. The children, including Iris, our window to this world, spend thier time at one with their natural surroundings, they have nothing to do, but they're not bored. An unfamiliar face turns up, Juan, inspiring curiosity in Iris. He takes her and her brother to the mainland. They wander aimlessly in a modern shopping centre, finishing food left behind in a restaurant, take in the fruits of modern technology like running water, screens and elevators. This trip seems to have a lasting effect on Iris, who has had her eyes opened and is now understandably restless at home.
At this point I presumed the film would ask the question of whether they are better off in their isolated sanctuary or the modern world with all it's moral complications. To a certain extent it does that, but it doesn't make that the focus of the runtime - I think it is just as much about the tone - It is very quiet and soothing, yet coiled like a spring. It could also be read as a girls physical and spiritual journey into a new world and exciting discoveries, or an examination of the modern theme of technological enhancement vs technological corruption.
The wildlife plays a massive part in building the tone. It seemed not five minutes goes past without a shot of animals. Lots of oceanic shots, which to some, may seem like frilly decoration, but the ocean represents one of the most important things in Iris' life, the barrier between island life and the mainland. It is often shown as beautiful and serene, but still lethal, brutal and not to be taken for granted - the brother cuts himself in the sea and at the end of the film a beached whale dies despite their efforts.
There is a very well done moment which takes place on the mainland. Iris fnds a man we believe to be her dad. Ha is hard to read (as are most characters most of the time in a film of this style) but seems happy to see her and frolics with her, but they are from different worlds. The difference between the two is cleverly and heartbreakingly shown through a late moment of Iris playing with him in the street - crucially playing as animals as children might. The behaviour is everyday on the island but too unusual on the cynical mainland. The divide between them is unsurmountable.
This is a textured, very rich film full of symbolic meanings and worthy themes, not to mention enigmatic, interesting performances. There is no denying it is impressively subtly communicated and beautifully made (lighting cinematography, shot choice, score are all stellar) - Terence Malick-esque at times and perhaps most importantly memorable.
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