Watched at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival.
What the filmmaker Stillz is able to capture is a vibrant, violent, raw, and energetic portrait about the depressing and hopelessness revolving around children forcing to make their lives worthy in the world of poverty and class struggles. Filmed with a documentary approach, Stillz uses some interesting editing techniques on the camerawork, structure and direction choices. Almost as if it is a documentary, with some elements of music video direction, and story making throughout.
Alongside with some great sound designs, performances, and raw dialogue, the usages of the music was wonderful. It blends the magical realism and dark reality so well, that it manages to achieve successfully with it's character developments, writing and atmosphere. You feel for these children as they go through the struggles and harsh realities.
The way it's present almost feels like something Harmony Korine does. Where it's gritty and nasty nature and presentation feels genuine and raw to it's finest. Which is one personal flaw for me as I feel that the movie at times does feel like it takes a bit too much influence from Korine.
Overall, Stillz might have potential to become a great filmmaker in the future and I'm looking forward to see what else they will offer in the future.
