MovieChat Forums > We the Animals (2018) Discussion > Absolutely superb.

Absolutely superb.

posted 5 years ago by Nostromo (212)
7 replies | jump to latest

It's pretty incredible that this is Director Jeremiah Zagar's first feature, which he also co wrote. The movie is based on a novel and focuses on Jonah the youngest of three brothers growing up in a volatile family environment. We follow Jonah's escapism into magical realism as he tries to forget the harshness of his surroundings. The dialogue and acting from all is brilliant, especially from the three young boys.

Cinematographer Zak Mulligan shot most of it on film and cites Ken Loach and the documentary 'Street Wise' as big influences on the movie. The grainy effect of film captures the nostalgic feel of the narrative and helps the viewer get into the 1980s vibe.

Most of the themes centre around your general coming of age type tropes (Peer pressure, belonging, family dynamics etc) but the real strength of the film is putting the viewer into the headspace of Jonah. Making us live those slices of time and fantasies that he does. There is one scene in particular where the camera swings round to complete a reveal that practically left my jaw on the floor it is done so well.

Fans of films like 'Moonlight', 'The Florida Project', 'Mud, 'Beasts of the Southern Wild' and of Directors like Andrea Arnold might enjoy this one.

Jonah's a young boy, a bit different from his brothers, trying to make sense of the world.

Great film.

[–] [email protected] (1288) 5 years ago

Which scene are you referring to when the camera swings around to complete a reveal?

[–] Nostromo (212) 5 years ago

Where he's standing at the window and goes to play with his brothers in the bedroom...then the camera pans round to reveal it's just a figment of his imagination. He knows he's different at this point. It's very powerful.

[–] [email protected] (1288) 5 years ago

Yes agree with you... Tell me what you feel the grave was about..Why did the father dig the hole?

I loved the film, but felt it was a little slow in parts..They coudve used that time to expand on the mother or the other brothers.

[–] Nostromo (212) 5 years ago

I can't remember if there was a reason the father dug the hole. But the magical realism segments show Jonah slowly coming to terms with realising who he is - and flying out of the hole is an analogy for his sexual awakening and new lease of life. I loved it. One of my films of 2018.

[–] [email protected] (1288) 5 years ago

I dont know why he dug that grave, but it was after he was fired from his job. The mother was just as volatile as the father..Sad fact that many kids live this life with dysfunctional parents.
I am always open to film suggestions if you have any. I have a list at home, but traveling now, so do not have access.
I like this type of film with family dynamics functional or not. I just watched Roma and although people were raving, I found it fell a bit flat but worth the watch.
"Room" was also good, but a bit disturbing. (woman kidnapped and put in a room with her baby for 5 years) The child never knew anything different until a turn of events. It was a good film.

[–] Nostromo (212) 5 years ago

Room was great, as was Roma. From last year I really recommend 'The Rider' and 'Thunder Road'. Both have family dynamic type plots.

[–] [email protected] (1288) 5 years ago

Seems we like the same types of films. If you come across any other suggestions please let me know, and I will as well. "Easy" (on Netflix) is a series about everyday life, and I loved it. 2 seasons. A third may be coming. Give that a try. Ill try the 2 u suggested, thanks.