*Vesper* (2022) is a visually striking and thought-provoking sci-fi film directed by Kristina Buožytė and Bruno Samper. Set in a dystopian future where Earth’s ecosystem has collapsed, the film follows a young girl named Vesper who must navigate a harsh and unforgiving world dominated by bioengineering and genetic manipulation.

### **Plot Overview:**
The world of *Vesper* is one where humanity’s pursuit of genetic perfection has led to ecological ruin. The wealthy live in fortified citadels, protected from the outside world, while the less fortunate struggle to survive in the devastated wastelands. In this bleak environment, Vesper, a 13-year-old girl with a sharp mind and a strong will, lives with her paralyzed father, Darius, who communicates with her through a drone he controls.

Vesper has a natural talent for biohacking and spends her days experimenting with genetic material in an attempt to find a way to grow food in the barren land. Her life takes a turn when she discovers a mysterious woman named Camellia, who has crash-landed in the nearby woods. Camellia claims to be from the Citadel, and her arrival sparks a series of events that challenge Vesper’s understanding of her world and force her to confront the dangerous powers that seek to control it.

### **Themes:**
*Vesper* delves into themes of survival, resilience, and the ethical implications of bioengineering. It explores the stark contrasts between the haves and have-nots in a world where technological advancements have been used to further divide society rather than improve it. The film also examines the relationship between humanity and nature, questioning the cost of trying to control and manipulate the natural world.

### **Visual Style:**
The film is notable for its hauntingly beautiful visual style. The directors create a world that is both desolate and lush, filled with eerie landscapes and strange, otherworldly flora and fauna. The use of practical effects and minimal CGI adds to the grounded, tactile feel of the film, making the dystopian future it presents feel all the more real.

### **Performance:**
Raffiella Chapman delivers a compelling performance as Vesper, embodying the character’s intelligence, determination, and vulnerability. The film also features strong supporting performances from Richard Brake as Darius, Vesper’s father, and Rosy McEwen as Camellia, whose mysterious presence drives much of the film’s plot.

**Conclusion:**
*Vesper* is a unique entry in the sci-fi genre, offering a fresh take on dystopian storytelling with its focus on bioengineering and its impact on society and the environment. The film’s combination of striking visuals, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a memorable and impactful experience for fans of speculative fiction.