Polaris

"Set in 2144 against the harsh backdrop of a subarctic wasteland, SUMI, a human child raised by MAMA POLAR BEAR, narrowly escapes capture from a brutal MORAD hunting party and sets out across the vast winter landscape. When Sumi stumbles across FROZEN GIRL, an unlikely friendship is forged and together they race ahead of the vindictive hunters towards the only guiding light Sumi knows, the POLARIS star."

7.5/10

I have to admit this kind of film is not my usual cup of tea, BUT this is what I love about Sitges, having the chance to explore new territories. This is a bold and expertly crafted picture, with a strong lead child performance, so it deserves at least an extra half star for the effort. And I loved the made-up language!

9/10

I went into this movie knowing nothing about what it was about. In the beginning I was confused but weirdly intrigued, like I couldn't take my eyes off of the screen. A big lesson I learned from this movie is the power it has to change my perspective with no words. Words are the main source of understanding, so when that's taken away you're forced to use your imagination. What are the characters trying to say but instead with their words showing it with their actions?

If I could talk to myself before watching this movie I wouldn't say anything. I'm glad I experienced exactly how I did with no background information.

À predominantly nonverbal arrangement of Arctic scenes is the only redeeming quality of the film. This film has been weighed, it has been measured, and it most certainly has been found extremely wanting. It lends itself to a mad Max themes slowed down to a crawl, while disincorporating a viable dialogue. No insult to Mad Max, which is somewhat of a cult classic, but does have somewhat of a low budget. Minute, by minute you wait for a pivotal moment. That satisfaction will never be realized. Even the ending, which culminates in a seeming crescendo, leaves one rolling their eyes, leaves one wanting, leaves one most definitely nonplussed.

Set in a distant postapocalyptic future, Polaris (2022) follows a young girl named Sumi who moves away from her life with a polar bear that raised her. The frozen land that surrounds her is occupied by violent gangs in repurposed rusted steel armour, reminescent of the survivors in Mad Max and Waterworld.

As a fan of both of these works, I went into this movie wanting to like it given the comparisons it has received in the press, in addition to it being a Canadian production. However, this movie felt like the filmmakers had all of these interesting ideas they wanted to put on the screen, except for a compelling story with interesting characters that the audience can feel invested in. What I experienced in this film was a hollow story with some mildly interesting gore in between.

The characters in the film speak an unrecognizable language (and Sumi who makes animal noises). The audience is invited to pay attention to the non-verbal performances of the actors, which is a refreshing and bold move by the filmmakers that fit perfectly with the atmosphere of the film... until there is a complete, tone-shattering voiceover in plain English somewhere in the middle of the movie and once more at the end.

The relationships that the protagonist Sumi builds with different characters seemed rushed and forced. I didn't feel that there was any character development over the course of the film. Also, there were elements of environmentalism that I hoped the film could have explored more deeply, instead of simply through superficial reactions by the protagonist. The production design is what you would expect from a low-budget film and does not detract too much from the immersiveness.

The movie does shine in some aspects. The cinematogrpahy is excellent in showing both the desolate and hopeful sides of the Yukon landscape. Muriel Dutil gives a powerful and emotional performance as Dee, an old woman Sumi meets in her journey and the only interesting character in the film.

Polaris is a visually captivating cinematic experience. And the made up language was wow!

Set against the backdrop of the frozen and harsh Canadian Arctic, the film follows the journey of a young warrior girl, who is navigating the realities of life in the war-torn North. The storytelling is poignant, highlighting the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The cinematography beautifully captures the vast, frozen landscape, enhancing the film's mystical qualities. The performances and supporting cast, are deeply authentic, drawing viewers into the characters' struggles and triumphs. My daughter and I especially loved the opportunity to meet a couple of the actors at the end of the screening.

Carthew skillfully weaves together themes of humanity, our natural environment, self-discovery and survival creating a compelling narrative that resonates on a profound level. Additionally, the film's music, composed by the talented Tanya Tagaq, enhances the overall impact and raw emotion.

Carthew's masterful storytelling makes her a director to watch and this gem is a must-see for anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of humanity and resilience.