Emerging out of the plethora of blockbuster and mega Hollywood productions and being presented as one of the best films of 2012 comes this "sleeper film". I call this a sleeper film because even though the Oscar buzz has flipped this independent film into a red carpet charmer there are many who STILL have not seen it.
For those weary of details for this movie allow me to give a brief synopsis.
In the swamps and back yards of Louisiana behind the notorious non-updated levee system that failed to save New Orleans and surrounding cities from Hurricane Katrina in 2005 lies a region that was purposely not marked on a geographical map. A piece of land for those who choose the most primitive of conditions as opposed to what we would called civilized society. The people who live there, call it "THE BATHTUB" but for people like me who enjoy air conditioning and meat that is already dead before I cook it, I call it a crazy way of living.
In the middle of it all is 'Hushpuppy'; a five-year old little girl raised by her ailing (physically and apparently mentally) father. Hushpuppy (Quvenzhane Wallis) is not only the star of the movie but also our narrator. Now she's no Morgan Freeman mind you, but the young star does a good job of showing her audience the perception of an impressionable young lady living in the wild.
There are symbolisms used in this film often, but I was pushed through this film with the characters interesting way of living. Although I left the film with so many questions I also was very intrigued by the validity of the story and it's believable cast. You find yourself rooting for Hushpuppy throughout the film and concerned about her well being all at the same time. In an area where probaly twenty miles up the water you can buy a cup of coffee for five bucks, these people hunt for their food and live in trailers that should most certainly be condemned and raised children in need of a good comb, bath, and book. Yet they all to have pride in their private territory and shun the outside world as they view it.
I give this movie four stars and recommend that you check it out and give me your opinion.
Until next time... Holla Back!
-Achmone
