Navigating Grief in a World of Oxen and Mystery

Read Time:4 Minute, 11 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Boi de Conchas (The Shell Covered Ox)
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Genre: Drama, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 15m
Director(s): Daniel Barosa
Writer(s): Daniel Barosa
Cast: Bebé Salvego Daniela Dams
Language: Portuguese with English subtitles
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Welcome to the emotionally charged world of THE SHELL COVERED OX. Here, Bebé Salvego shines as Rayane, drawing us into a story that's as bizarre as it is touching. Imagine a world where teenagers mysteriously turn into oxen – yes, you heard that right. This film explores the depths of loss, family ties, and the undying flame of musical ambition. Does it sound like a lot to pack into 15 minutes? It is, but believe me when I tell you you won’t want to blink during the runtime!

Director Daniel Barosa takes us on a journey that blurs fantasy and reality. Drawing inspiration from the Brazilian folklore of the ox, Ratambufe, “The animal longed to see the ocean, but its owner consistently failed to fulfill his promise. Ratambufe eventually flees into the sea to escape its actual fate.” Barosa creates a narrative rich in symbolism and cultural depth. His direction is a dive into the heart of Brazilian society and its challenges.

One of the film's most striking features is its unique blend of Rayane's struggles within this magical world with seemingly no explanation. Barosa bridges the gap between the surreal and the familiar by combining contemporary storytelling tools like social media and texting. This narrative choice echoes how today's youth navigate their reality, constantly trying to reconcile the digital with the physical world.

However, THE SHELL COVERED OX sometimes grapples with clarity, especially regarding the peculiar connection between the missing teens and their transformation. This aspect, while captivating, leaves viewers yearning for more insight into the characters' internal struggles and emotional journeys. It was mentioned that Barosa initially intended this to be a feature film, and it needs to be; I genuinely believe the story needed more room to stretch its legs.

The film truly excels in portraying grief and how one copes with neglect. Rayane's journey of coming to terms with her sisters vanishing amidst a backdrop of unanswered questions offers a commentary on overlooked societal issues. The film challenges the media's obsession with sensational stories, redirecting the focus to the human experiences that genuinely deserve attention.

A standout feature of THE SHELL COVERED OX is its soundtrack, dominated by the pulsating rhythms of Krisiun, a Brazilian death metal band. This bold musical choice enhances the film's atmosphere and challenges and reshapes the typical portrayal of Afro-Latin teenage girls in media, breaking new ground in stereotype defiance. It offers a unique experience beyond what you expect; the first time the music starts from the headphones, you feel the music flow through you.

Barosa's directorial style is marked by its dreamlike, non-linear approach. He plays off the idea of whimsical sequences within the reality of snapshots of daily life, inviting viewers to engage in a more active interpretation of the story. Though innovative, as mentioned above, this method sometimes results in a disjointed narrative, leaving some connections in the plot unexplored.

The climax of the film, marked by Rayane's potent act of musical rebellion, stands as a powerful testament to the impact of art and expression in addressing social injustices. This pivotal moment transcends the realm of mere storytelling; it's a powerful symbol of how grief can transform into a force for change.

THE SHELL COVERED OX is a journey through a world of mystery and loss. Anchored by Salvego's captivating performance, the movie invites audiences to reflect and engage in meaningful discussions, marking its place as a distinct and impactful contribution to contemporary cinema. Let's get that feature rolling, and give us more of the story!

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