‘The Message’ Review: A Minimalist, Beautifully Shot Argentine Road Movie That Celebrates Both the Natural and Supernatural

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Many children might fantasize about having the ability to converse with animals, forging unique connections that only they can comprehend. However, in the movie “The Message” (El mensaje) directed by Iván Fund, the lovable young protagonist doesn’t just imagine this; she actually makes a living from it, and she does so with great compassion and affection for all creatures, whether they have fur, scales, or wings.

This simple yet peculiar road trip film focuses on Anika (Anika Bootz), accompanied by her caretakers Myriam (Mara Bestelli) and Roger (Marcelo Subiotto). They traverse the Argentine countryside, peddling Anika’s unique skill of “natural telepathy” with animals. Claiming to converse with the spirits of pets, Anika translates their thoughts or messages for owners seeking insight into their beloved pets’ minds. In exchange, Anika and her companions enjoy a nomadic #vanlife, roaming freely across the land like an ancient circus troupe, parking their RV at will.

In a similar vein to Peter Boganovich’s 1973 film Paper Moon, The Message evokes memories of a little girl and a swindler traveling across Depression-era America. The Argentina portrayed in Fund’s movie seems to be struggling, yet the director emphasizes more on the lighthearted adventure of the trio as they navigate from one location to another, using Anika’s enchanting abilities to make ends meet.

The question arises: Is this entire scenario authentic or just a hoax? However, the movie fails to clarify this matter and lacks a substantial narrative to support its initial premise. This omission is regrettable since joining Anika and her associates on their journey is enjoyable, despite it not developing into a complete tale. Consequently, The Message will likely be showcased in film festivals, but may face challenges when attempting to find international distributors.

Collaborating alongside the gifted DP Gustave Schiaffino, also a cameraman by trade, we craft a striking, low-budget visual style reminiscent of Jim Jarmusch’s early films like “Stranger Than Paradise” and “Down by Law,” or Wim Wenders’ “Kings of the Road.” His captivating portrayal of nature’s uncomplicated charm, be it pets in our homes or horses galloping through a deserted town, effortlessly makes “The Message” a delight to watch, even without any substantial narrative conflict.

Occasionally, the movie seems closer to reality than fiction, despite being scripted. The captivating Zootz portrays her role so convincingly that Anika’s actions, which involve mimicking what puppies or kittens are apparently telepathically communicating, seem utterly ordinary, even mundane, as if she finds her own supernatural abilities somewhat routine.

In the meantime, Myriam and Roger are working hard to keep the business afloat, distributing flyers, collecting payments, and arranging TV news interviews to promote Anika’s skills. However, one may wonder if they are her grandparents or simply using her for their own gain. Yet, the movie doesn’t provide a clear answer to this question.

One poignant moment depicts them accompanying Anika to see her mother at a psychiatric institution, yet their conversation is minimal and the storyline doesn’t progress further. There are other instances rich with history – such as Roger’s past as a circus clown, hinted by old photographs – that could have added depth but are left unexplored by Fund, who prioritizes maintaining a specific atmosphere instead.

In approximately 90 minutes, he skillfully immerses us into a harmonious realm where humans, animals, and children coexist tranquilly. Towards the end, the vehicle pulls over beside the road, allowing Anika to exit and cautiously approach a wild capybara stepping out from the undergrowth. It’s unclear whether she can sense its thoughts or is simply captivated like any child would be; either way, this film emphasizes the importance of the medium itself over its underlying theme.

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2025-02-18 23:25