“Society of the Snow” Film Review: Director JA Bayona Netflix’s Oscar Contender Offers a Harrowing yet Hopeful Tale, Not Suitable for the Faint-Hearted
Director JA Bayona, known for his horror sensibilities, continues to navigate various genres in his latest film, “Society of the Snow,” Spain’s official entry to the Oscars. Bayona, recognized for works like “The Orphanage” and “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom,” now delves into the harrowing true story of the 1972 Andes flight disaster.
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The survival drama, released on Netflix, captures the ordeal of approximately two dozen Uruguayans stranded on a snow-clad mountain after their plane crashed. The film explores the limits of human endurance, depicting a tragic chapter in history that left survivors resorting to unthinkable measures for survival.Bayona’s cinematic approach to “Society of the Snow” showcases both strengths and potential pitfalls:
Director JA Bayona
Bayona’s penchant for horror elements is evident even in non-horror genres. From a Spanish-language thriller to a poignant drama and a blockbuster featuring giant dinosaurs, Bayona consistently injects suspense and scare tactics. “Society of the Snow” underscores the director’s ability to maintain tension, even in a survival drama.
Cultural Authenticity in Casting
The film’s smart choice of culturally appropriate actors adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative. By casting actors who resonate with the cultural background of the characters, Bayona enhances the film’s credibility and emotional impact. This decision distinguishes “Society of the Snow” from previous portrayals of the same event.
Visual Magnificence and Cinematic Expertise
Collaborating with cinematographer Pedro Luque, Bayona explores sweeping vistas and close-ups, creating a visually dynamic experience. The cinematography alternates between offering moments of respite amid suffering and emphasizing claustrophobia. Despite the likely use of green screens or LED backdrops, the seamless effects contribute to the film’s overall immersive quality.
Gory Realism and Unflinching Depiction
The crash sequence provides an opportunity for Bayona to intensify the gore, portraying the brutal aftermath of the disaster. Bones crunch, skulls crack, and flesh is skewered, emphasizing the harsh reality faced by the survivors. The unflinching depiction adds a layer of authenticity to the film’s portrayal of the survivors’ struggle for survival.
Balancing Thrills and Melodrama
“Society of the Snow” navigates a delicate balance between heart-pounding thrills and earnest melodrama. While the film delivers harrowing moments, it also incorporates elements of hope. Bayona avoids turning the film into an exploitation picture, demonstrating sensitivity in handling the ethical implications of the survivors resorting to cannibalism.
Exploration of Desensitization and Adaptation
The movie explores the psychological impact of extreme circumstances on the survivors, addressing themes of desensitization and adaptation. Bayona suggests that time and circumstances can alter perceptions of morality, making even the most unthinkable acts acceptable. This serves as a meta commentary on society’s relationship with violence and horror.
Impressive Set-Pieces and Loss of Life
Bayona stages impactful set-pieces, punctuated by moments of loss and tragedy. While the visuals and makeup remain impeccable, the film’s writing receives criticism for feeling somewhat lifeless. The sprawling ensemble cast may lack adequate development, preventing the movie from transcending its genre origins.
Genre Origins and Cinematic Thrills
“Society of the Snow” falls short of becoming one of the year’s best films but stands out as an exceptionally well-made survival thriller. Bayona’s focus on cinematic thrills, combined with his exploration of human resilience and adaptation, makes the film a compelling addition to the survival genre.
In summary, “Society of the Snow” showcases JA Bayona’s ability to navigate diverse genres while maintaining a distinctive directorial style. The film’s success lies in its visual prowess, cultural authenticity, and the delicate balance between horror, drama, and survival elements. Despite some narrative shortcomings, the film remains a noteworthy entry in Bayona’s filmography, offering audiences an intense and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
