Wildland

In the gripping 2020 film Wildland, we follow the poignant journey of 17-year-old Ida as she grapples with the aftermath of a tragic car accident that takes her mother's life. Seeking solace and a new beginning, she moves in with her estranged aunt and her adult cousins, hoping to find a sense of belonging. However, the warmth of familial love is juxtaposed against the menacing undertow of their violent lifestyle, drawing Ida into a world riddled with crime and moral ambiguity. As she navigates this complex environment, the film deftly explores themes of loyalty, loss, and the struggle for identity amidst chaos.

The characters in Wildland are vividly drawn, each embodying the harsh realities of their choices. Ida's innocent curiosity clashes with her family's dark undertakings, leading her to question the very nature of love and safety. The film's intimate portrayal of familial bonds is both tender and unsettling, as it balances moments of physical affection with the stark violence lurking just outside their door. With its atmospheric cinematography and nuanced performances, Wildland invites viewers to consider the lengths one might go to protect loved ones, even when those attachments lead down perilous paths. This crime drama is not just a story of survival; it’s a haunting reflection on the complexities of family ties and the shadows they can cast.