Tragic Jungle

A Belizean woman, Agnes, heads out into the jungle to escape an arrange marriage. Near the border with Mexico she encounters a group of workers who initially treat her kindly and with respect. However, over time their desires complicate proceedings and Agnes becomes an object of lust. While seemingly innocent, Agnes is far from vulnerable.

A film that promised much. The initial plot suggested a theme of female empowerment and generally freedom from oppression. The encounter with the workers leads to simmering sexual tension and a thought that Agnes is not safe anymore. This all makes for an intriguing set up to the plot.

However, the film never really takes off. The tension is drawn out to the nth degree without any real progress in the story. Moreover, the film goes from psychological thriller to supernatural drama, definitely a step down.

In the end it just fizzles out, rather than ends saying anything profound or being entertaining. Quite disappointing.

I felt the need to write up a short review because, well, there weren't that many and I think this film deserves some words from a more balanced perspective.

First, this is not a movie to watch if you're looking for a "haunting flick" with jump-scares and ghostly apparitions. Its tempo is rather slow and pondering. But if you can enjoy movie experiences that are more like meditations, do not pass up on this film. This might also not be a film for your average date night as it has themes and certain shots that are extremely discomforting.

But if you, like me, enjoy movies that take place in the jungle and uses the jungle as a sort of n:th character in the plot (I immediately think of Aguirre, the Wrath of God, Apocalypse Now and Cannibal Holocaust to name a few), and you can - like previously mentioned - enjoy a movie that puts forth suggestive themes and existential questions in a shroud of contemplative horror, you'll enjoy it.

I deeply appreciate the fact that the movie uses both english, spanish and mayan language as it adds to the realism (as well as the narrative, which you'll understand by watching it), and the characters all felt believable and interesting in their own ways. It sort of reminds me of The Witch (2015) in some ways too, with its suggestive cinematography, and the music is haunting and unnerving.

Perfect for a late night watch if you can stomach the existential dread.

The most likely UNDERAGED girl slave character had what 5 lines with absolutely no plot line. Aggravated.

The film is extremely slow mode. But, it's like the jungle, seems to be calm, yet violent. You may say "Damn" from time to time. Totally experimental movie. Not everybody's cup of coffee.

Kind of mystery type Film waiting and watching for some unknown things to happen.