THE REVENANT *** (vo English)
Here is another tale of nature, but this one is about the incredible endurance and survival instincts of one man in a mercilessly harsh environment. Viciously mauled by a massive bear, betrayed by his companions and left for dead, he then becomes hell bent on revenge.
Brilliantly filmed by the multi-awarded Mexican director, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (“Babel”, “Biutiful”, “Birdman”), and starring the supremely talented Leonardo DiCaprio, this Golden Globe winner for Best Film, Actor and Director, is a tour-de-force tale based on the true exploits of fur trader Hugh Glass in the American northwest during the early 1800s.
Despite its wondrous cinematography and haunting soundtrack, it is nevertheless a very difficult film to watch (as it was, no doubt, to film!), due to its violent, graphic depiction of Glass’s exploits. Not for everyone, but a must for avid cinephiles.
LES SAISONS **** (vo French)
How much patience, passion and persistence must it take to create such fascinating documentaries as “Le Peuple Migrateur” or “Océans”?! But also, what tremendous talent!
The French directors Jacques Perrin and Jacques Cluzaud have once again outdone themselves with their latest opus, “Les Saisons”.
I will go out on a limb and say, if you see ONE film this year, let it be this one.
For this grandiose take on the natural history of the European continent from the Ice Age to today is a beautifully structured tale of the evolution of centuries and seasons, and the intermingling of a myriad animal species.
There are amazing shots – from sparrows to squirrels, wolves to bears, elks to glorious wild horses – playing, fighting, scavenging – magnificent in their freedom and innocence, until man comes along.
The music of their regular collaborator, composer Bruno Coulais, adds to the wonder of their work. Run to this enchanting documentary which will elate your spirits, and take the kids along too!
Superb **** Very Good *** Good ** Mediocre * Miserable – no stars
By Neptune
Neptune Ravar Ingwersen reviews film extensively for publications in Switzerland. She views 4 to 8 films a week and her aim is to sort the wheat from the chaff for readers.

Neptune at the 2015 Locarno film festival in Switzerland
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