Review by Jon Donnis
The Forest is an intense and thought-provoking post-apocalyptic thriller that blends elements of survival, mystery, and even love. Directed by Hendrik Cronje and Mari Molefe van Heerden, the film offers a gripping story set within the confines of an sometimes beautiful but also eerie, desolate woodland. With a strong South African cast and a carefully woven narrative, The Forest delivers a unique take on the genre, immersing viewers in an unsettling yet deeply emotional journey.
The film follows Heinrich, played by Ruan Wessels, a man who has lived in isolation for years following a nuclear war that seemingly wiped out humanity. His belief that he is alone is shattered when he discovers Em, portrayed by Simone Neethling, a voiceless woman whose presence raises more questions than answers. Em possesses mysterious abilities, a trait that has drawn the attention of a ruthless gang led by Samuel, played by Roderick Jaftha. As Heinrich struggles to protect her, a bond develops between them, proving that even in a world stripped bare, there is still room for trust and connection.
Set entirely in the forest, the film uses its natural surroundings to heighten the sense of isolation and danger. The dense woodland feels both sheltering and suffocating, creating an environment where every shadow and rustling branch could mean survival or death. The cinematography captures this beautifully, with the surroundings playing a key role in setting the mood. The soundtrack adds to the tension, at times haunting and melancholic, at others swelling with emotion during key moments.
The performances are particularly strong, with Wessels portraying Heinrich's mix of resilience and vulnerability convincingly. Neethling delivers an impressive performance despite having no dialogue, using body language, her own invented sign language and facial expressions to communicate her emotions. Jaftha also stands out as Samuel, a character who, despite his brutality, has more complexity than a simple villain. Em's abilities, revealed to be the result of scientific experimentation on radiation survivors, add an intriguing layer to the story. The way she can only use them when in contact with the ground, and nature itself, is a fascinating detail that leaves room for further exploration, perhaps even in a future prequel.
One minor issue is the lack of detail regarding Heinrich's survival before meeting Em. Having lived alone for years, his well-groomed appearance and physical condition feel somewhat inconsistent with his situation. However, this is a small distraction in an otherwise well-constructed narrative, and suspending disbelief allows the story's emotional core to shine through.
With its compelling performances, stunning use of setting, and an evocative soundtrack, The Forest is a short but deeply engaging film that lingers in the mind. Its themes of survival, connection, and the mysteries left behind in a broken world make it a standout entry in the post-apocalyptic genre. Both thrilling and emotionally resonant, it is a film that will leave audiences reflecting long after the credits roll.
Score: 9/10
Available now on Prime Video at https://amzn.to/410itB2
