Resilience Tested As Past and Present Collide

Read Time:4 Minute, 5 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Perla
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2025
Runtime: 1h 50m
Director(s): Alexandra Makarová
Writer(s): Alexandra Makarová
Cast: Rebeka Poláková, Simon Schwarz, Carmen Diego, Noël Czuczor, Hilde Dalik, Ingrid Timková, Ivan Romančík, Zuzana Konečná, František Beleš, Ivan Šandor, Bence Hégli
Where To Watch: shown at International Film Festival Rotterdam 2025

RAVING REVIEW: PERLA, set in 1980s Vienna, presents a captivating tale that intertwines personal ambition with political tension. The story follows Perla (Rebeka Poláková,) a Slovak painter who has sought refuge in Austria, leaving behind the constraints of communist Czechoslovakia. Her life takes an unexpected turn when Andrej (Noel Czuczor,) the estranged father of her daughter Julia (Carmen Diego,) reappears, claiming to be ill. This encounter propels Perla into a journey that challenges her newfound freedom and forces her to confront unresolved issues from her past.

Director Alexandra Makarová explores themes of identity, autonomy, and resilience. Drawing inspiration from her own family history, Makarová crafts an intimate yet universally relatable narrative. Her connection to the story adds a unique depth, making the film a heartfelt tribute to women navigating the complexities of freedom and self-determination.

Poláková's portrayal of Perla is nuanced. She brings to life a multifaceted character, capturing the essence of a mother torn between her present life and the ghosts of her past. The supporting cast, including Simon Schwarz as Josef and Hilde Dalik as Claudia, deliver performances that add context and exploration to the narrative. Each character contributes to the film's personality.

Visually, PERLA is a treat. The cinematography employs an observational style, using unconventional angles and compositions to reflect Perla's internal conflict and her sense of being caught between two worlds. Mirrors and partially obscured frames serve as metaphors for her introspection and the lingering presence of her past. The meticulous attention to detail in capturing the muted tones and textures of the era adds to the film's authenticity.

The film's setting reflects the socio-political environment of the early 80s. Makarová avoids clichéd portrayals of Eastern Europe, instead selecting locations that convey a faded grandeur. These locations symbolize a world not entirely removed from our own but separated by ideological divides.

A particularly striking scene involves a local ritual where women are subjected to symbolic acts of subjugation under the guise of maintaining health and vitality. This portrayal serves as a powerful commentary on the normalization of gender-based violence and the insidious nature of cultural practices that perpetuate women's oppression.

The film's score beautifully complements its visuals. By incorporating traditional themes with contemporary compositions, the music underscores Perla's struggles and the tension between her past and present. The score is an emotional undercurrent, enhancing the storytelling without overwhelming it.

PERLA presents its protagonist as a multifaceted individual. Perla's decisions are driven by a complex interplay of personal desires, maternal instincts, and the haunting specters of her past. Her journey is emblematic of the broader human experience of seeking identity and belonging amidst external constraints. While deeply rooted in its historical context, PERLA's themes resonate universally. The film addresses autonomy, resilience, and the enduring impact of cultural and political structures on individual lives. Makarová's nuanced storytelling invites viewers to reflect on how personal and collective histories intertwine, shaping our lives' trajectories.

In conclusion, PERLA transcends its historical setting to explore the human spirit's quest for freedom and self-determination. It challenges, enlightens, and inspires, leaving audiences with a profound appreciation for the resilience of those who dare to defy the constraints imposed upon them.

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[photo courtesy of GOLDEN GIRLS, HAILSTONE, RUTH BECKERMANN]

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