The Beasts (2022)

Overview

The Beasts (originally titled "As Bestas") is a 2022 Spanish-French co-production, a thriller-drama film. Directed by Rodrigo Sorogoyen, the film presents a striking story woven with the harsh realities of rural life, set in the Galicia region of Spain. Starring Denis Ménochet and Marina Foïs, the production stands out with a screenplay inspired by a true event. The film has received great acclaim in the festival world, earning nominations and winning awards at numerous prestigious award ceremonies, most notably the Goya Awards. Sorogoyen's directorial approach relies on a character-driven, atmospheric cinematic language that gradually builds tension. Beyond being just a thriller, The Beasts stands out as a work that deeply examines the dark sides of human nature, social conflicts, and the brutality of rural life.

Plot

Antoine and Olga, a French couple, decide to leave city life behind and build a new life in a remote village in Spain with the aim of practicing sustainable farming. Their efforts to integrate with the local community gradually turn into an increasingly tense environment as a result of disputes with their neighbors. In particular, disagreements over the installation of a wind power plant in the region escalate the tension between the couple and their neighbors. This seemingly simple dispute evolves over time into deep hostility, threats, and violence. By centering on the clash of two different worldviews and two different ways of life, the film lays bare the socioeconomic tensions and xenophobia experienced in rural regions. As the story progresses, the tension escalates, and the viewer witnesses just how dangerous the dilemma the characters find themselves in can become.

Why Watch It?

The Beasts is not an ordinary thriller; it offers a cinematic experience that deeply affects the viewer psychologically. One of the film's greatest strengths is that none of the characters are drawn as entirely "good" or "bad," which gives the story a realistic and multi-layered dimension. Rodrigo Sorogoyen's directorial style, using long takes and natural lighting, turns Galicia's wild, green yet equally menacing nature into almost a character of its own. Denis Ménochet's performance carries incredible intensity both physically and emotionally, drawing the viewer into the character's inner conflicts. The film also masterfully handles universal themes that remain relevant in today's world, such as rural-urban conflict, migration, land ownership, and resistance to social change. The tension-building scenes are so realistic and unsettling that the viewer cannot look away and remains in suspense waiting for the ending.

Who Is It Suitable For?

The Beasts is an ideal production for those who love slow-paced but increasingly tense, character-driven dramas. For viewers accustomed to fast-paced, action-packed thrillers, the film may require some patience at first, but the psychological pressure that builds as it progresses rewards that patience many times over. Those interested in European cinema, especially Spanish and French productions, fans of dramas that deeply explore social issues, and viewers curious about stories inspired by true events will thoroughly enjoy this production. Additionally, the realistic depiction of rural life will also appeal to fans of nature-themed cinema. On the other hand, viewers sensitive to intense violent scenes and psychological tension are advised to be cautious while watching the film.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. The extraordinary, natural, and convincing performances of Denis Ménochet and Marina Foïs greatly enhance the film's emotional power.

2. Rodrigo Sorogoyen's directorial approach builds tension organically, practically trapping the viewer within the film.

3. Galicia's natural scenery and cinematography offer an impressive visual feast that strengthens the story's atmosphere.

Cons:

1. The film's slow-paced structure may initially feel tedious for viewers accustomed to fast-paced content.

2. The intense tension and disturbing content in some scenes may be challenging for sensitive viewers.

Genre and Tone

The Beasts can essentially be classified as a drama and thriller film, but it has a layered structure that contains social criticism and psychological depth. The film's tone is generally dark, tense, and bleak; however, this gloomy atmosphere enhances the story's realism and impact. While the director builds a level of tension realistic enough to disturb the viewer, he does not overlook the humane sides of the characters either. Even though violence is not shown directly in the film, the constant presence of threat and tension hanging in the air creates a deep sense of unease in the viewer. This balance sets the film apart from a classic thriller, transforming it into a more intellectual and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Runtime and Viewing Experience

The film runs for approximately 137 minutes, and throughout this time, a sense of tension that never lets go of the viewer prevails. The first half hour focuses on introducing the characters and setting, while in the following minutes the tension gradually increases, reaching its peak in the final part. The film's long runtime may be tiring for some viewers, but thanks to Sorogoyen's skillfully constructed scenes and realistic dialogues, this duration never feels wasted. In terms of viewing experience, it must be said that this is a production that requires your full attention and cannot be watched superficially. Watching it in a quiet environment, without distractions, will allow you to fully feel the tension and emotional depth the film offers.

Similar Works

• Cold Fish (2010)

• Winter's Bone (2010)

• The Hunt (2012)

• Buried (2010)

• El Reino (2018)

• Mother! (2017)

Final Assessment

The Beasts can be considered one of the most impressive thriller dramas of modern European cinema. Rodrigo Sorogoyen locks the viewer into their seat until the film's end with the tension he builds slowly but solidly. With strong performances, impressive cinematography, and a story inspired by real life, the film offers a cinematic experience that is both thought-provoking and emotionally draining. In contrast to the romanticized image of rural life, this production, which reveals the tensions and dangers lurking within this world, promises its viewers an unforgettable cinematic experience. For patient and attentive viewers, The Beasts is a powerful and impressive production that absolutely deserves a place on year-end lists.