Animal

Animal is a gripping Argentinian thriller from 2018 that captivates its audience with a thrilling plot and a captivating star cast. The film boasts performances by renowned Latin actors Guillermo Francella, Carla Peterson, and Federico Salles under the direction of the accomplished Armando Bo. Animal, which runs for 112 minutes in Argentine Spanish with English subtitles, pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling and takes audiences on an intriguing psychological journey.

The story revolves around Antonio Decoud, played by Guillermo Francella, a conservative man, firmly built in his routines and beliefs. Guillermo Francella, known for his versatile acting abilities, stretches his dramatic skills to portray this complex character. Antonio leads a respected but not entirely happy life, settled in his role as a married man and father in peaceful suburbia.

Carla Peterson plays Antonio's wife, long-suffering yet gentle, who tries to maintain a facade of normalcy despite the ongoing strifes in their life. Federico Salles adds an extra layer of complexity to the film with his performances, further enhancing the movie’s drama and suspense. The talented cast brings relatability, depth, and multi-dimensionality to their characters, adding to the raw and unconventional narrative of the plot.

The storyline of Animal takes a sharp turn when Antonio finds himself in a dire situation. His life, as it turns out, depends on a kidney transplant that he desperately needs but is unable to secure. With oscillating emotions, Antonio must navigate the world he thought he knew but was proven wrong. As he confronts the resentment and fragility within his marriage, he comes across a stranger who could be his salvation or his downfall.

Animal portrays an exploration of primal instincts and the depths to which one could stoop when desperation takes over. It takes on the exploration of morality, self-preservation, and humanity's instinctual behavior toward survival, making the audience question what they themselves would do in such a situation and what it means to be 'civilized'. The film ventures into the grey area between life and death, good and evil, kindness and selfishness. It challenges the magnitude of love, trust, and human decency against the primitive fight for survival.

Throughout the film, Armando Bo encapsulates the complexities and rawness of the human spirit, reflecting his prowess in psychologically poignant narratives. The narrative proceeds with a tense and measured pace, gripping viewers with its unpredictable plot twists and powerful emotional resonance. The robust script delves deep into the human psyche and the savage nature hidden beneath the layers of civility.

The cinematography of Animal is truly noteworthy, with its visually appealing and affective sequences that capture the atmospheric moodiness of the narrative. It amplifies the suspense and adds a certain nuance to the storytelling. Moreover, the film tastefully uses symbolism to heighten the narrative's intensity and provides viewers with a distinct cinematic experience.

Boasting layered narrative, spectacular performances, and breathtaking visuals, Animal is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller. It challenges societal norms and breaks away from traditional movie cliches to face the harsh realities humanity wrestles when caught between life and death scenarios. It's a stark reminder of the primal, untamed spirits lurking within the civilized persona, marking this film as a must-watch for lovers of deep, thrilling and provocative cinema.