Unexpected Roles and Relatable “Tails”

Read Time:3 Minute, 51 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Piaffe
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Genre: Drama, Fantasy
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Ann Oren
Writer(s): Thais Guisasola, Ann Oren
Cast: Simone Bucio, Sebastian Rudolph, Simon Jaikiriuma Paetau, Björn Melhus, Lea Draeger, Don Alonso
Where To Watch: in theaters starting August 25, 2023, see where here www.oscilloscope.net

RAVING REVIEW: Have you ever been to an art museum? You will see rooms full of magnificent works by brilliant artists worldwide, but step outside and venture down to the street level, where you’ll find the actual art, true masterpieces. Welcome to the captivating realm of PIAFFE, where every frame surprises, and the joy of the unexpected is just the tip of the iceberg here.

Meet Eva (Simone Bucio), our protagonist, thrust into the world of being a foley artist tasked with recreating genuine horse sounds for a commercial. While it might sound peculiar, Ann Oren masterfully crafts this bizarre premise as a treat for the eyes and ears. But that’s not all; Eva isn't just filling in for any sound artist; she's stepping in for her absent sister, Zara. The relatable beats of adapting to unforeseen challenges make PIAFFE resonate differently from what I’ve been used to.

Bucio is the driving force behind Eva’s enchanting journey. Her portrayal, sprinkled with nuances, allows us to resonate with the might, elegance, and regality symbolized by the horse, acting as a lens for Eva's introspective adventure. Sometimes, the narrative lingers too long, causing a slight drift. Yet, before you know it, Oren yanks you back, pulling you from one scene to the next in this flawless ebb and flow, showing the prowess of their directorial talent.

Now, let’s address the elephant (or, should I say, the horse?) in the room. Eva's unexpected growth isn't just a quirky plot twist; it's a compass pointing towards her transformation. The best part is that you can answer many of the questions surrounding it yourself. Here, we’re introduced to the enigmatic world of Novak (Sebastian Rudolph), a botanist who will change everything we know about Eva. This intriguing addition infuses the narrative with fervor, igniting sparks of passion and power.

Bridging the old with the new, Oren's choice to shoot with a 16mm film adds an ageless charm. Far from being just aesthetic, this choice peppers the screen with compelling visuals, coaxing the viewer into an introspective journey on passion's multifaceted nature. It makes you feel like you’re watching a home video at times, which gives the entire experience a different level of immersion.

There's also an underlying call to action here; PIAFFE isn't a passive watch. There is much to unpack; the film shows Eva's physical transformation parallels themes such as intersexuality, queerness, and more. Oren's careful blend of audio and imagery beckons viewers to participate, ponder, and perhaps even argue. This immersive experience ensures the movie’s appeal remains wide, seasoned with just the right pinch of humor. But if one thing guides this film, it’s Bucio's magnetic performance. Watching her traverse from apprehension to assuredness is nothing short of a masterclass.

In wrapping up, PIAFFE isn't merely a viewing experience; it’s an expedition, skilfully oscillating between sheer artistry, suspense, and avant-garde narrative flairs. With Oren steering this ship, the film is an audacious testament to the evolving world of cinema.

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[photo courtesy of OSCILLOSCOPE LABORATORIES]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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