THE BEASTS | Official UK trailer [HD] In Cinemas and On Curzon Home Cinema 24 March

The Beasts (As Bestas) is a tense psychological thriller and drama directed by Rodrigo Sorogoyen. This Spanish-French film intricately weaves themes of xenophobia, rural isolation, and the clash between modernity and tradition, delivering a gripping tale of human conflict and survival.

Plot Summary

The story follows a middle-aged French couple, Antoine (Denis Ménochet) and Olga (Marina Foïs), who relocate to a small rural village in Galicia, Spain, to pursue their dream of sustainable farming and a simpler life. However, their arrival is met with hostility from some of the locals, particularly two brothers, Xan (Luis Zahera) and Lorenzo (Diego Anido), who see the newcomers as a threat to their way of life.

Tensions escalate when Antoine opposes a wind turbine project that could disrupt the natural beauty of the area but would financially benefit the local community. What begins as subtle intimidation soon spirals into a chilling and violent confrontation, testing the couple’s resilience and humanity.

Themes

1. Cultural Clashes and Xenophobia
   The film examines the distrust and resentment faced by outsiders in tightly knit rural communities.
2. Conflict Between Progress and Preservation
   The clash over the wind turbine project symbolizes the broader struggle between economic opportunity and environmental conservation.
3. Survival and Human Nature
   As tensions boil over, the story explores the lengths to which people will go to defend their beliefs, land, and pride.

Key Performances

• Denis Ménochet (Antoine):
  Ménochet delivers a powerhouse performance as a man determined to stand his ground despite mounting threats. His portrayal is both sympathetic and unflinching.
• Marina Foïs (Olga):
  Foïs balances strength and vulnerability, offering a nuanced depiction of a woman torn between her ideals and the danger posed to her family.
• Luis Zahera (Xan):
  Zahera’s portrayal of the menacing antagonist is chilling and complex, embodying the simmering rage and desperation of someone who feels displaced in his own community.

Cinematography and Direction

Rodrigo Sorogoyen masterfully builds tension with a slow-burning narrative, allowing conflicts to unfold naturally while keeping audiences on edge. The cinematography by Álex de Pablo captures the rugged beauty of the Galician countryside, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and foreboding. The use of natural light and long takes adds to the film’s realism and emotional impact.