Beasts of the Southern Wild is the fantasy story of a little girl known as 'Hushpuppy' who is raised by her father 'Wink' in the Gulf of Mexico basin area of the southern United States known as "the bathtub." All seems well in her tiny community until Wink becomes sick and her world literally comes crashing down around her in the form of glaciers melting, sea levels rising and a massive storm. The storm also releases massive prehistoric "beasts" that have been trapped in the ice and they begin a film-long trek towards Hushpuppy and the other storm survivors. With their homes underwater, Wink, Hushpuppy and the small band of characters who call "the bathtub" home, attempt to rebuild their lives while avoiding starvation, disease and attempts from government officials to relocate them. Hushpuppy goes in search of her mother for answers and in the end must draw strength from her friends, neighbors and the sometimes harsh lessons her father used to raise her, in order to face the beasts of an uncertain future.
Quvenzhane Wallis is spectacular as Hushpuppy, the fearless and curious main character. Most of the film's charm can be traced to Hushpuppy's childish interactions with the world around her. More than just benefiting from being an adorable little girl, Wallis at times delivers a performance that draws emotions from a wisdom well beyond her years.
Dwight Henry plays Wink, Hushpuppy's father, who is a combination of protector and foil. Everything that rings true about Wallis' performance would not be possible without her opposite Henry. Dwight Henry is the hidden gem of this movie. His portrayal of a father determined to raise his daughter with a tough, no-nonsense attitude while at times displaying the demeanor of an overgrown child himself is gripping. The small group of actors cast in the background are an authentic and colorful group who more than capably tie the film together.
Overall this is a great little film. It should be applauded for its simple yet powerful story telling. With very minimal effects and great performances from everyone involved from top to bottom it is very poetic and gives hope to every film maker who champions simple elegance over hollow, grandiose, big-budgeted blockbusters.
Snobby Art House Rating - A
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