Beasts of the Southern Wild

I believe that most people love a great 'rites of passage' film. I know I certainly do. So when this small independent film called "Beasts of the Southern Wild", was released back in June of 2012, I really felt I needed to see this film. But then other films came, and all of a sudden the end of year films had to be seen for possible Academy consideration. When I realized this film was being nominated for four Academy Awards including best picture, actress, director, and adapted screenplay, this had to happen, and I'm so glad it did.

Hushpuppy (Quvenzhane Wallis), an intrepid six-year-old girl, lives with her father, Wink (Dwight Henry), in the Bathtub, a southern Delta community at the edge of the world. Wink's tough love prepares her for the unraveling of the universe; for a time when he's no longer there to protect her. When Wink contracts a mysterious illness, nature flies out of whack, temperatures rise, and the ice caps melt unleashing an army of prehistoric creatures called aurochs. With the waters rising and subsequently flooding, the aurochs coming, and Wink's health fading, Hushpuppy must search and learn the ways of courage and love.

This had a supporting cast that was incredibly eclectic, but worked well off one another, especially those who were part of the Bathtub community. They are Levy Easterly as Jean Battiste, Lowell Landes as Walrus, Pamela Harper as Little Jo, Gina Montana as Miss. Bathsheba, Amber Henry as LZA, Jonshel Alexander as Joy Strong, Nicholas Clark as Boy with Bell, Joseph Brown as Winston, Henry D. Coleman as Peter T, Kaliana Brower as T-Lou, Philip Lawrence as Dr. Maloney, Hannah Holby as Open Arms Babysitter, Jimmy Lee Moore as Sgt. Major, Jovan Hathaway as The Cook, Kendra Harris as Baby Hushpuppy, and Windle Bourg as Herself.

This was poignantly and intensely directed by Benh Zeitlin ("Egg" '05, "The Origins of Electricity" '06, "Glory at Sea" '08 [all shorts]). This is Zeitlin's first full length feature and he not only is being nominated in the directing category, but the writing one as well. Needless to say, he will receive more work. This was brilliantly written by Lucy Alibar and Zeitlin based on the stage play, "Juicy and Delicious" by Alibar. Can you imagine what Zeitlin will be like with even more experience?

As mentioned prior, what a great rites of passage vehicle, and Wallis really pulls this off. This gifted actor, whether she wins on Oscar night or not, has a very promising career headed her way. She will capture your heart while you are cheering her on.

Out of 4 Stars: 4                           Rated: PG-13                          93mins.