A Director’s Homage to Youth and Misadventures

Read Time:3 Minute, 54 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Hippo
–

Genre: Comedy, Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 40m
Director(s): Mark H. Rapaport
Writer(s): Mark H. Rapaport, Kimball Farley
Cast: Kimball Farley, Lilla Kizlinger, Eliza Roberts, Jesse Pimental, Eric Roberts, Vann Barrett
Where To Watch: showing at the Film Maudit 2.0: Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Delving into the adolescent maze that is HIPPO serves up a decadent slice of the '90s, dressed in a profound narrative that feels as influential as the quirky home it's set in. With an affection for vintage vibes and emotional depth, this film navigates the delicate dance between growing pains and personal discovery. All while pushing yourself to the edge with some interestingly taboo topics.

HIPPO emerges as a poignant reflection on youthful turmoil, framed within the confines of a 1990s Pennsylvania household that becomes more than just scenery—it’s a silent participant in the unfolding drama. In this home where time seems to have paused, siblings Hippo (Kimball Farley) and Buttercup (Lilla Kizlinger) grapple with their evolving identities, with each frame delicately exploring the crises and struggles of mixed emotions that come along with growing up.

Director Mark H. Rapaport offers a raw glimpse into his adolescence through HIPPO, presenting it not just as a film but as a personal narrative echoing his struggles with faith and identity. This introspective journey is layered with mythical allusions, making each scene a complex interplay of past and present challenges. Rapaport's directorial style shines as he melds these elements into a coherent storyline that resonates with anyone struggling with finding themselves.

The film’s visual storytelling, executed in striking black and white, strips away the distractions of color, focusing the viewer’s attention on the intense emotional landscapes of Hippo and Buttercup. Farley and Kizlinger embody their roles with an intensity that brings depth to their characters’ internal conflicts and whimsical escapades.

The screenplay smartly integrates '90s cultural artifacts, from nostalgic video games to random nostalgia seen all around the home, which do more than just set the scene—they echo the characters’ internal battles and attempt to connect with a world that often feels out of reach. These elements are not merely decorative but are pivotal in anchoring the film’s themes of connection and alienation.

The film's auditory backdrop complements the visual storytelling with a sonic soundscape that pulls viewers deeper into the emotional vortex of the characters' lives. The music selections oscillate between the energetic beats of the '90s and more somber tones that mirror the characters' internal struggles, enhancing the atmospheric depth of HIPPO. This element of sound design not only enriches the viewing experience but accentuates the thematic dichotomies of nostalgia and personal growth.

The metaphorical climax adds a layer of suspense and beautifully encapsulates the film’s exploration of reality versus perception. This scene is a testament to the creative ingenuity behind HIPPO, highlighting the meticulous effort that goes into crafting visually arresting and thematically rich moments.

HIPPO doesn’t just navigate the complexities of adolescence; it offers a lens into the souls of its characters, inviting the audience to reflect on their journeys through its candid and stylized portrayal. In the indie cinema landscape, HIPPO carves out a niche, representing both reflective and innovative. Rapaport’s unique vision ensures that the film is more than just watched—it’s felt, making HIPPO a significant and memorable exploration of growing up, masterfully balancing the lightness of humor with the weight of existential drama.

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. You can also find my social media accounts on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of KINEMATICS, ROUGH HOUSE PICTURES]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.