"Beasts of the Southern Wild" is a fantasy/drama about a young girl named "Hushpuppy" (Quvenzhane Wallis) who lives in a southern Louisiana community called "bathtub," which is cut off from the rest of the world by a levee). It's like a post-Katrina world where this whole group of people live all to themselves beyond the levee. As a storm approaches, many citizens of the bathtub flee but Hushpuppy stays to ride out the storm with her hot-tempered father Wink (Dwight Henry). Wink seems to have some sort of health issue, but he doesn't want to scare Hushpuppy. Rather he focuses on teaching her and building her skills so that she can take care of herself. After the storm, Hushpuppy, her father, and other residents of the bathtub struggle to rebuild while Wink faces his health issues.
This movie is a bit different given the fantasy element of these prehistoric creatures who come out after the big storm but I liked it a lot. There's definitely some similarities to post-Katrina Louisiana but I think the film is overwhelmingly about Hushpuppy and how the strength of one little girl can rally a community. The film is told from Hushpuppy's perspective and the audience sees how she grows in confidence and spirit throughout the film. I was impressed with Wallis as an actress. Reportedly she was five years old when she auditioned for the role and she really owns the screen in this role. I'm hoping that she will continue to grow as an actress because she's off to such a great start. The film itself is a visual treat and something you just have to drink in. Very imaginative and creative. Watch out for this one at awards time.
I really liked this film but I think it's for those willing to watch something artistic and allegorical. A- for me.
Very interesting little movie. Enjoyed it. Agree with A-.
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