Film review by Dennis D. McDonald

It’s the year 43,000 BCE. A small group of Northern European travelers, who speak a language invented for the movie, are searching a barren and rocky landcsape for food and warmth. Things are harsh. An unseen presence starts attacking the group. We follow their trials and tribulations as they fight for survival.

If that sounds pretty grim, well, it is. The group has limited tools and hardly any food. Much of the story takes place around firelight, at night, or during grey and sullen cloud-choked days.

What makes the movie watchable? Two things: (1) the characters and (2) photography and production values.

The characters are well drawn and we learn about them as they walk and search. They possess varying degrees of leadership, brashness, fear, bravery, and occasional wisdom. Some stupid decisions are made. Bad events and retributionn follow. But characters and personalities are well portrayed despite (or because of?) what must have been an unpleasant filming experience.

Production wise, the unforgiving landscape and weather are beautifully portrayed. If you enjoy the look of things when clouds are thick and evening light scarce, you’ll enjoy the images, especially when drone based cameras track the movement of group members against the almost abstract looking landscapes.

But mark my words: this movie is NOT a fun ride. It’s a no-compromises film about survival in a primitive world where the time it takes to light an evening campfire can make the difference between life and death. You’ve been warned.

Review copyright (c) 2024 by Dennis D. McDonald

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