Bonobo

Bonobo is a rebellious, thoughtful, and whimsical 2014 British independent comedy-drama film directed by Matthew Hammett Knott and features accomplished actors including James Norton, Tessa Peake-Jones, and Carolyn Pickles.

The movie is named after the Bonobo ape, known for their peaceful, matriarchal societies and the use of sex to resolve conflicts. The primate serves as an underlying symbol and central motif throughout the narrative, providing an anthropology-influenced backdrop for this tale of contemporary familial tensions, freedom, and unconventional choices.

James Norton, best known for his roles in Happy Valley and Grantchester, departs from his typically serious characters to splendidly portray a more light-hearted and lively character. He plays Ralph, an intoxicatingly free-spirited young man, living in a hippie bonobo commune, who is entirely committed to the "Bonobo way," an ideology that uses sex as a conflict resolution tool and maintains a generally libertine attitude towards life.

Tessa Peake-Jones, recognized for his role in Only Fools and Horses, plays Judith, a conservative, middle-aged woman struggling to come to terms with her daughter's lifestyle after an unfortunate accident leaves her mildly incapacitated. Judith's conventional views and controlled lifestyle clash significantly with the principles of the commune her daughter so passionately embraces, leading to a daunting culture shock for the conventional English mother.

Carolyn Pickles adds to the impressive cast playing Anita, the stern, fierce, and protective leader of the Bonobo commune. Her character is a staunch advocate of the unconventional lifestyle that the commune upholds.

Situated between the hustle and bustle of the modern world and the tranquil, free-spirited life of the commune, Bonobo explores the dynamics between these polar opposites and the societal and personal implications that come with them. It cleverly questions the parameters of normalcy while diving into a journey of tolerance, reconciliation, and acceptance in the face of seemingly strange beliefs.

Combining a number of genres - comedy, drama, and some elements of romance — Bonobo is filled with wit and satire, while also being relentlessly thought-provoking. Through its absurd premise and intriguing narrative, the movie does more than make the audience laugh; it fosters a dialogue about societal norms, unorthodox lifestyles, the importance of understanding, respect, and accepting others for who they are.

Despite having its fair share of comedic moments, Bonobo also presents a potent examination of familial relationships and adolescent rebellion, using these familiar themes to ground its slightly absurd premise in real, relatable emotion. As the story unfolds, complex and emotionally rich parent-child relationships are explored, providing the audience with an in-depth understanding of the lengths to which a parent will go to protect their child.

Bonobo also offers an appealing direction aesthetically, combining natural colors to bring out the beauty of the commune and contrasting them with the harsh, cold tones of the city, representing the stark difference between the two worlds that Judith must navigate. The director, Matthew Hammett Knott, brilliantly employs deft cinematographic techniques that take the viewers on an emotional rollercoaster while they journey through the narrative.

In summary, Bonobo is a unique, entertaining, and provocative film that introduces audiences to an unusual world and challenges societal norms. Its engaging plot, credible performances, and pertinent theme make it a concoction of fun, raw emotion, and skepticism around compliance and rebellion. It's a tale about acceptance and understanding, told through the lens of wit, humor, and a welcome dash of British eccentricity. A must-watch for those seeking something out of the ordinary, Bonobo offers both a delightful comedic experience and profound contemplation of societal norms.