Jul. 12, 2018|BE|100 Min.|Unrated
Genre: Adult;Drama
Description: The 2018 film *Wij* (translated as *We* in English), directed by Rene Eller, delves into a dark and unsettling narrative that contrasts sharply with the beauty of its cinematography and serene soundtrack. At first glance, the movie’s themes of nihilism and youthful depravity may overshadow its artistic elements, but the film’s lush landscapes and soothing music offer a stark contrast to its grim content. Set in modern suburbia, *Wij* boldly exposes the hidden corruption and disturbing behaviors of a group of teenagers, revealing a society that has spiraled into chaos.
Much like Larry Clark’s *Kids*, *Wij* portrays a summer in which a group of adolescents engage in explicit and dehumanizing acts, including sex, prostitution, physical violence, and blackmail. The film’s raw and unscripted feel, combined with the convincing performances of the young cast, creates an unsettling yet realistic depiction of their cold, distant, and occasionally sympathetic personas. As the characters indulge in these acts with casual abandon, the film risks losing its impact, resembling other exploitation films with little depth.
However, *Wij* manages to captivate viewers with its gripping narrative, even during its most disturbing moments. A suspenseful framing device—featuring one of the teens testifying in a trial involving a mysterious death and a potential pedophile—hooks the audience and maintains tension until the end. This central mystery drives the film’s non-linear plot, which unfolds with intrigue and momentum, ensuring the story remains compelling throughout.
Despite its bleak themes, *Wij* stands out for its ability to balance harsh realities with artistic beauty, making it a film that is both unsettling and impossible to ignore.
Cast director: Rene Eller
Cast actor: Pauline Casteleyn, Aimé Claeys, Gaia Sofia Cozijn, Axel Daeseleire, Salomé van Grunsven, Laura Drosopoulos, Friso van der Werf, Lieselot Siddiki, Maxime Jacobs, Tom De Vreese
Original name: Wij