Society of the Snow releases on Netflix January 4th, 2024.

In the vast realm of contemporary filmmakers, J. A. Bayona stands out as one of the most underrated directors, consistently delivering films that embody a creative vision that goes beyond the traditional bounds of cinema. While I’m still recovering from the disappointing disaster that was Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, it’s evident that Bayona wasn’t the one to blame for the terrible script – his direction actually saved the movie from being completely irredeemable. Intrigued by his ability to instill his talent into diverse genres, I approached Society of the Snow with high hopes, particularly as it explored a true survival story previously unknown to me.

Society of the Snow Critique

Also Read: Good Grief Review – Dan Levy’s Directorial Debut is Charming Despite Cliches

Navigating the well-known path of survival dramas, Bayona injects genuine vitality into the narrative by confronting the challenges faced by the “characters” – it’s weird to refer to depictions of real people as such – with a shocking, visceral intensity. Despite adhering to certain predictable formulas inherent in such adaptations – Society of the Snow is based on Pablo Vierci’s book of the same name – the film transcends these limitations through Bayona’s masterful direction, imbuing the screenplay with a palpable tension that justifies its substantial runtime.

One of the movie’s biggest achievements lies in its frighteningly real recreation of the miraculous, almost unbelievable historical survival mission. The sheer audacity of surviving a plane crash in the unforgiving Andes, surrounded by towering snowy mountains in every direction, is conveyed with a sense of realism that is both awe-inspiring and harrowing. The actual crash sequence is shot with such brutality that it’s hard to keep looking, as the visuals and sounds of bones cracking, passengers getting crushed into each other, and the plane falling apart are only a few of the grueling elements that make this one of the most unforgettable flight disasters in cinematic history.

Society of the Snow overcomes its survival genre trappings to delve into profound themes of perseverance, beliefs, love, and the extraordinary human capacity to surpass one’s limits when life itself hangs in the balance. With the help of Bernat Vilaplana, Jaime Marques-Olearraga, and Nicolás Casariego, Bayona avoids most of the usual Hollywood screenplay dramatizations, focusing on a poignant exploration of the lengths to which individuals are willing to go in order to survive, often challenging their own deeply ingrained beliefs and moral compass. Bayona’s sensitive handling of these themes elevates the film to more than just a tale of physical survival.

In essence, it becomes a meditation on the resilience of the human spirit, showcasing the strength that emerges when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. It prompts the audience to reflect on the fragility of life and the profound transformations that can occur when individuals are pushed to the brink. As the characters grapple with the stark reality of their situation, Society of the Snow becomes a mirror reflecting the complex nature of one’s persona. The cast is crucial in representing the script’s authenticity, delivering a remarkable collective effort, breathing life into characters who find themselves in a wildly barren environment. Their performances form a cohesive ensemble that adds depth and dimension to the real story and people, culminating in a powerfully cathartic ending that will leave no viewer indifferent.

Visually, Society of the Snow is terrifyingly stunning, demonstrating the breathtaking beauty of its natural landscapes through in-location filmmaking at its finest. While the ample snowy mountains create a majestic backdrop, DP Pedro Luque (Don’t Breathe 2) expertly infuses the scenes with a sense of claustrophobia and lifelessness, underscoring the dire predicament faced by the characters. The movie’s visual grandeur, combined with its ability to evoke a feeling of confinement, contributes significantly to the overall immersive experience.

And finally, the music composed by Michael Giacchino (The Batman), who once again, creates a soul-stirring accompaniment that truly emphasizes the emotional resonance of Society of the Snow. With lovely piano notes that delicately touch the heartstrings, the score complements the narrative, creating a symphony that enriches the characters’ struggles and triumphs. Technically, it’s hard to find any issue with such a brilliantly crafted flick. It’s hard to find any issue, really…

In Conclusion

Society of the Snow unquestionably solidifies J. A. Bayona’s status as an absurdly underrated filmmaker. One of the most unbelievable, harrowing survival stories ever recreated, brought to life by a truly remarkable ensemble cast, breathtaking cinematography that captures the awe-inspiring yet treacherous landscapes, a deeply stirring score that tugs at the heartstrings, and a plane crash sequence like you’ve never seen before. The convergence of these elements transforms an admittedly predictable survival piece into a visceral, emotionally resonant experience, urging audiences to reflect on the thoughtfully handled themes of human resilience, beliefs, and perseverance. A must-watch, especially on the big screen if possible.

8/10

Follow us for more entertainment coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.