Consequences

Consequences is a 2018 Slovenian drama film, a raw, unsentimental, and visually striking expose on the brutal realities of wayward teenage life. The film marks the directorial debut of Darko Stante, who mobilizes the high-octane talents of an energetic ensemble cast that includes Matej Zemljič, Timon Šturbej, and Gašper Markun.

The narrative of Consequences centers around Andrej (played by Matej Zemljič), a rebellious, volatile, and angst-ridden eighteen-year-old boy who finds himself struggling with a chaotic and hostile environment both at home and in society. A series of poor choices and reckless behaviors result in him being placed into a youth detention center. Crossing the threshold into this new world paves the way to a compelling and gripping journey into the heart of adolescence, self-discovery, and survival.

At the center, Andrej encounters Željko (performed by Timon Šturbej), the informal and fear-instilling leader of the detainees, who not only reigns over the others with an iron fist but also plays prime manipulator, pulling strings from behind the scenes. Gašper Markun supports as another detainee within the institution who contributes to character depth and layer to the group's dynmanics. The film provides a deep dive into their world where high-stakes games of power, deceit, and struggle become a daily routine.

Their dynamics are deep and intricate. Andrej and Željko engage in an intense relationship – complex and uncertain, often bordering on homoeroticism. This confounding, intimate, and evocative relationship is one of the driving forces of the narrative, adding complexities to the characters and spurring on Andre\'s self-discovery.

Throughout the narrative, Stante throws light on the deeply ingrained societal codes that the young men follow, sometimes mindlessly. He dabbles in themes of machismo, hedonism, solidarity, along with a profound exploration of identity. Consequences isn't afraid to grapple with the gritty and often grim aspects of the teenage existence, tackling issues such as family dynamics, societal pressures, inherent violence, and the struggles of burgeoning sexuality.

Shot through a realistic lens, the movie's cinematography is worth noting for its grim and gritty portrayal of the urban landscape and detention center environs. Through subtly orchestrated scenes and dimly lit, grimy settings, the film beautifully lays bare the tumultuous reality of its protagonists' lives.

Aside from an intense narrative and impressive cinematography, the cast's performances are pivotal to the film's critical acclaim. Matej Zemljič's portrayal of Andrej is extraordinary. His raw performance delivers a potent mix of vulnerability, defiance, and simmering anger that beautifully unravels his character’s intricate layers. Equally compelling is Timon Šturbej as Željko, whose performance adeptly balances between charismatic, menacing, and mysterious. Gašper Markun’s contribution to the narrative, though not that of a leading man, is essential in portraying the group's dynamics effectively.

The screenplay by Darko Štante is laudable, conveying a narrative that shifts seamlessly between harsh realism, emotional turbulence, and occasionally, poignant introspection. It showcases a stark vision of youth life, laying bare the flawed and fallible humanity of its young characters without passing moral judgment. So, while it might be labeled a coming-of-age narrative, Consequences is far from a cliché — it plunges audiences into the agonies and ecstasies of adolescence without romanticizing any aspect.

One underpinning theme throughout the film is the enduring conundrum of choice and consequence. Every decision made by the highly complex and well-constructed characters subtly impacts their lives and relationships. This compelling exploration of the consequences borne out of their choices creates an atmospherically dense and morally gray cinematic experience.

In summary, Consequences offers a thought-provoking, intensely realistic portrayal of a peripheral social milieu. It’s a film that unflinchingly portrays the underbelly of Slovenian society, presenting experiences of troubled youth who are often overlooked. Furthermore, the film as a whole is a testament to the emerging talent in contemporary Slovenian cinema, marking Darko Stante as a fresh and bravely honest voice in European cinema. From its talented ensemble cast to its bold narrative, Consequences is certainly worth a watch for its compelling depiction of juvenile delinquency, self-discovery, and the intricate dynamics of human relationships.