Aug. 29, 2020|France|101 Min.|R
Genre: Drama;Horror;Mystery;Thriller
Description: The Swarm is a 2021 French horror film directed by Just Philippot, marking an impressive debut in the genre. The story revolves around Virginie, a widowed mother who transforms her family farm into a labor-intensive facility for breeding edible locusts. These insects serve as a sustainable protein source, aimed at helping the planet and supporting her family. However, Virginie struggles to make a profit due to unfair pricing, which forces her to seek alternative solutions. She discovers that the locusts thrive and mutate when fed human blood, leading to disturbing and horrifying consequences.
The film explores themes of maternal sacrifice, entrepreneurial ambition, and the lengths one might go to protect and provide for their family. It’s a gripping tale of body horror with intellectual undertones reminiscent of Cronenberg’s works. Virginie’s teenage daughter, Laura, faces bullying at school because of her mother’s unconventional farming practices, while her younger son, Gaston, adores his pet goat, adding emotional layers to the narrative. With its unsettling effects and compelling performances, *The Swarm* is a thought-provoking addition to the horror genre.
Cast director: Just Philippot
Cast actor: Suliane Brahim, Sofian Khammes, Marie Narbonne, Raphael Romand, Nathalie Boyer, Victor Bonnel, Christian Bouillette
Original name: La Nuée