Dreaming of an escape from the gloom of their hometown, two teenagers form a unique bond at a local modeling school, where the promise of a better life pushes the girls to violate their bodies in increasingly extreme ways. First, let me state that "Akiplesa" (Toxic) was, without a doubt, the crown jewel of this year’s Locarno Film Festival. Saule Bliuvaite masterfully crafted a narrative that resonated with the festival audience, delivering a story that speaks to their sensibilities in a style they can easily embrace. I was already an admirer of Bliuvaite’s work, having been captivated by her short film "Limuzinas" (2020). My faith in her directorial talent was unwavering. However, I must confess to a flicker of surprise when I spotted "Horror" label alongside “Mature”; and “Drama”; labels in the festival program. Describing the film without giving away spoilers is a challenge, but Bliuvaite has risen to the occasion with remarkable finesse. The film’s portrayal of the fears of 14-year-olds, etched into their being from their trembling hands to the fading sparkle in their eyes is deeply affecting, 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 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 assured and confident, showing a deft hand in balancing the film’s darker elements with moments of tenderness and vulnerability. The film’s visual style is striking, with its subdued color palette and stark compositions that create 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 worth seeing and discussing, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can find a way to endure and ultimately triumph.
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