48/17
It took 7 years to finance
The Maynards and their children live an almost perfect billionaire family life. Aman is an avid hunter, but does not shoot animals, because the family’s wealth allows them to live completely free of consequences.. Ayn Rand: The thing is, who’s stopping me?.
It was screened at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival
Filmmakers Daniel Hoesl and Juliane Niemann clearly have an interesting satirical take on the affluent class, and while there are good ideas, the film feels underdeveloped and underpowered. Throughout, the production design, cinematography and color presentation are gorgeous and help capture the atmosphere and essence of the characters. Although the direction from Hoesl and Niemann is somewhat chaotic, they have a clear vision of what style and atmosphere they are reaching for.
Not invested or interested in being emotionally involved
Most of the performances are solid with a few children’s performances being a little weak. The narrative is a good concept but unfortunately, it feels as strong as it should because the narrative feels underdeveloped with some themes and the characters underdeveloped. As if it had some good ideas that didn’t really live up to its potential.
But it could have been stronger
There are shocking, exciting and very strange moments and I understand where the filmmakers are coming from and their vision. But it doesn’t feel entirely earned and the style feels akin to something from Ruben Ostlund or Michael Haneke. Overall, it’s not bad as there are some moments that I appreciate.