MOVIE REVIEW
Kix
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 34m
Director(s): Dávid Mikulán, Bálint Révész
Where To Watch: world premiere at the 2024 CPH:DOX Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Take a stroll down Budapest's energetic streets as they become the setting for an unexpected partnership when Sanyi, a 10-year-old, crosses paths with visionary filmmakers Dávid Mikulán and Bálint Révész. Their collective journey unfolds in KIX, a documentary that spans a decade of transformation. This isn't just any story—it's a deep dive into the heart of Hungary's working class, viewed through the eyes of Sanyi as he navigates the bumpy road from childhood to adulthood. The film does more than just tell a story; it mirrors the vibrancy and challenges of urban living, emphasizing the power of connection in overcoming life's hurdles.

KIX is set against the contrasting backdrop of Hungary's allure and its societal challenges, portraying Sanyi's life as both a skateboarding adventure and a venture into adult responsibilities. The documentary captures his evolution, filled with moments of defiance, joy, and the eventual acceptance of adulthood's stark realities within a society marked by exclusion and difficulty. The close-knit relationship between Sanyi and the filmmakers offers an intimate glimpse into a culture where a youthful spirit often clashes with society's expectations. One of my favorite aspects of screening films has been the education I receive from watching so many incredible stories.  I knew very little of Hungary’s political climate, and over this past week, I’ve watched two films that have opened my eyes; while this isn’t a film about politics, it can’t help but touch on the larger world that Sanyi lives in.

What truly sets KIX apart is its authentic and visually inventive storytelling, combining the spontaneity of a skateboarding clip show with the gritty truth of social realism. This innovative mix brings Sanyi's tumultuous decade to life, highlighting his growth from a carefree child to a contemplative adult, facing the outcomes of his decisions head-on. The film doesn't just document these years; it challenges us to think about the impact such chronicling has on its subjects.

KIX transforms into a poignant critique of Hungary's evolving social landscape, tackling themes of marginalization, responsibility, and the quest for identity. It urges viewers to question the determinism of fate and the resilience of the human spirit against the backdrop of societal and familial challenges.

The synergy between Mikulán and Révész weaves Sanyi's narrative with Hungary's broader socio-political context, blending artistry with activism. Their approach, characterized by a raw visual style and a soundtrack resonating with punk's raw energy, injects the narrative with an authenticity and urgency that captures the essence of Hungarian youth culture.

This film courageously intersects art, personal experience, and social critique, inviting the audience to reflect on destiny, youth's perseverance, and the film's revelatory power to expose life's hidden truths.

KIX marks a notable achievement in documentary filmmaking, delivering a poignant and insightful chronicle of a boy's journey through the fluctuating environment of modern-day Hungary. It's a celebration of storytelling's capability to illuminate the enduring spirit of youth amidst adversity. Through Sanyi's experiences, filmmakers Mikulán and Révész have not only painted a picture of society but also lit a beacon of hope for storytelling's role in catalyzing understanding and change.

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[photo courtesy of ELF PICTURES, CINEPHAGE]

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