Vesper (2022) Review

Vesper (2022), directed by Kristina Buožytė and Bruno Samper, is a visually arresting and thought-provoking sci-fi drama that immerses viewers in a post-apocalyptic world marked by ecological collapse and genetic manipulation. Balancing compelling storytelling with striking visuals, the film is an evocative exploration of resilience, morality, and hope in the face of despair.

Plot Overview

Set in a dystopian future where Earth’s ecosystem has collapsed, Vesper follows its titular protagonist, a 13-year-old girl (Raffiella Chapman), as she navigates a harsh and desolate world. Genetic engineering has become humanity’s last hope, but access to technology and resources is controlled by oppressive elites living in citadels, leaving the majority to fend for themselves in squalor.

Vesper is a resourceful and intelligent young girl, caring for her paralyzed father, Darius (Richard Brake), whose consciousness is tethered to a hovering drone. Her life changes when she discovers Camellia (Rosy McEwen), a mysterious woman from one of the citadels who crash-lands near their home. Camellia’s presence unveils secrets that challenge Vesper’s understanding of her world and set her on a journey of discovery and survival.

Performances

Raffiella Chapman delivers a standout performance as Vesper, capturing the character’s intelligence, determination, and vulnerability. Her portrayal brings depth to a protagonist who is both a product of her grim environment and a beacon of hope. Richard Brake’s nuanced performance as Darius adds emotional weight to the story, while Rosy McEwen’s enigmatic Camellia provides a compelling foil to Vesper’s grounded perspective.

Supporting roles, including Eddie Marsan as the ruthless Jonas, further enhance the film’s tension and stakes. Marsan’s portrayal of Jonas as a self-serving antagonist highlights the film’s exploration of power dynamics and moral ambiguity.

Visuals and World-Building

The visual design of Vesper is one of its most striking features. The filmmakers craft a richly detailed and hauntingly beautiful world, blending organic and mechanical elements to create a unique and immersive setting. The desolate landscapes, bioluminescent flora, and grotesque bio-engineered creatures evoke a sense of wonder and unease, reflecting the film’s themes of ecological decay and human ingenuity.

The cinematography by Feliksas Abrukauskas enhances the atmosphere, with a muted color palette and thoughtful composition that emphasize the bleakness of Vesper’s world. The use of practical effects and CGI is seamless, allowing the environment to feel both fantastical and grounded.

Themes and Writing

Vesper delves into themes of survival, autonomy, and the ethical implications of genetic manipulation. The film’s narrative explores the tension between technological progress and ecological sustainability, as well as the societal inequalities exacerbated by these advancements. Vesper’s journey is not only one of survival but also of agency and empowerment, as she seeks to carve out a future in a world that seems designed to suppress it.

The screenplay, written by Buožytė and Samper, balances introspection with moments of tension and discovery. While the pacing is deliberate, it allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their motivations. The dialogue is sparse yet impactful, emphasizing the harsh realities of the world while leaving space for visual storytelling.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The film’s greatest strength lies in its world-building and emotional resonance. The meticulous attention to detail in the setting and character design immerses viewers in Vesper’s world, while the central relationships provide a poignant emotional core. Chapman’s performance anchors the narrative, making Vesper a relatable and inspiring protagonist.

However, the film’s deliberate pacing may not appeal to all viewers, as the emphasis on atmosphere and character development occasionally comes at the expense of narrative momentum. Additionally, some aspects of the world’s lore and backstory are left underexplored, leaving certain questions unanswered.

Conclusion

Vesper (2022) is a visually stunning and emotionally impactful sci-fi drama that stands out for its originality and thematic depth. With a compelling protagonist, richly imagined world, and thought-provoking narrative, it offers a unique perspective on resilience and hope in a fractured future. While its deliberate pacing and ambiguity may not resonate with everyone, the film’s artistry and emotional resonance make it a standout entry in the genre.

For those seeking a sci-fi film that prioritizes introspection and world-building over action, Vesper is a rewarding and unforgettable experience that lingers long after the credits roll.