Standing Tall Amidst the Flames of Greed

Read Time:3 Minute, 39 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
When Everything Burns (Cuando todo arde)
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Genre: Drama, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 12m
Director(s): Maria Belen Poncio
Writer(s): Maria Belen Poncio
Cast: Anabella Bacigalupo, Rubén Gattino, Natalia Di Cienzo, Irene Gonett
Language: Spanish with English subtitles
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: WHEN EVERYTHING BURNS offers a visceral and gripping tale, director Maria Belen Poncio steers us through a landscape scorched by literal and metaphorical fires. At the heart of this cinematic journey is Isabel, a brave volunteer firefighter in Argentina who battles the blaze and the greed fueling it. As the fire encroaches on their community, Isabel stands defiantly against it, setting the stage for a narrative rich in themes of resilience and resistance.

This film beautifully captures the lush forests and the devastation left in the wake of the fires in Cordoba, presenting a visual metaphor for Isabel's internal and external battles. These poignant visuals serve not just as a backdrop but as a character in their own right, enhancing the narrative's depth and pulling viewers into a reflective experience.

At its peak, WHEN EVERYTHING BURNS delivers a powerful confrontation scene that acts as both a climax and a mirror, compelling Isabel—and the audience—to face the broader impact of her decisions and the sacrifices they necessitate. This moment highlights the intense personal costs of activism, showcased against societal indifference and corporate malfeasance.

The film's core is enriched by the performances of Annabella Bacigalupo and Ruben Gattino, whose portrayals infuse the storyline with a quiet intensity that speaks volumes. Their acting captures the generational and ideological rifts at the narrative's core. Isabel's fiery resolve and multifaceted character are spotlighted as she navigates the complex web of local politics and personal belief, making every choice a testament to her deep-rooted principles.

The stirring score by Juan Pablo Toch complements the story. It accentuates the film’s dramatic moments without overshadowing them. This soundtrack synchronizes beautifully with the unfolding drama, enhancing the emotional resonance and keeping viewers wholly engaged.

Poncio's WHEN EVERYTHING BURNS is more than just a film; it is a profound call to reflection and action. It challenges the audience to consider their roles and responsibilities in the face of environmental and ethical dilemmas. With its compelling narrative, the film stands out at the festival and encourages a deep introspection about our collective impact on the planet.

When EVERYTHING BURNS concludes, it leaves a lasting impression by delving into themes of justice and commitment, all portrayed through spectacular cinematography and thoughtful direction. The film invites viewers to reevaluate the balance between individual sacrifices and the greater good in environmental activism. When you sit back and realize that the entire story is somehow all compacted into just 12 minutes makes it that much more impressive.

In sum, Poncio's film transcends its narrative to become a poignant discussion on activism. It significantly impacted the festival and urged us to contemplate deeper societal issues. It’s not just a film; it’s an urgent and compelling narrative that calls for awareness and action in addressing the pressing global environmental challenges we face today.

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[photo courtesy of PUNTO DE FUGA CINE, EL ESPEJO CINE, DONGO FILMS]

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