Forest Of Lost Souls

Forest of Lost Souls is a Portuguese psychological horror-drama film directed by José Pedro Lopes and released in 2017. This intriguing movie taps into deep existential themes, incorporating an atmosphere of suspense and hints of dark comedy. The strategic mix of black-and-white cinematography and stark settings amplify the intense emotions and intrigue that make the film an unforgettable cinematic experience. Daniela Love and Jorge Mota take the lead roles, demonstrating phenomenal performances that leave a lasting impression.

The movie's primary locale is the eponymous Forest of Lost Souls – a real-life forest in Japan notorious as a destination for those contemplating suicide. However, the filmmakers relocate the setting to Portugal while maintaining the forest's macabre reputation. Thus, akin to its namesake, this fictional forest becomes the backdrop for fraught encounters and ominous happenings.

Jorge Mota plays Ricardo, a seemingly despondent older man drawn to the forest for enigmatic reasons. Ricardo's sorrow is palpable from the very first scene, where we see him mourning in a cemetery. He is portrayed as a man let down by life, contemplating his existence and relationship with the world. His character evokes sympathy, curiosity, and perhaps even a sense of shared melancholy. Mota delivers a moving portrayal, capturing the essence of a disillusioned and despairing soul weighed down by life's burdens.

On the other hand, Daniela Love lends an intriguing portrayal to the character of Carolina, a nonchalant young woman who unexpectedly crosses paths with Ricardo in the forest. Her character exudes a peculiar mix of rebelliousness and dark humor, providing an unpredictable complement to Ricardo’s sober demeanor. Love’s performance brings a disturbing charm to Carolina, making her a focal point within the eerie atmosphere of the sorrowful wilderness.

As the narrative unfolds, the two characters spearhead a dialogue that alternates between profound discussions about life, death, and the fragility of human existence, to disconcerting exchanges suggestive of a macabre reality concealed beneath the surface. They venture together into the desolate woodland, their strangely intertwined journey further intensifying the film's atmospheric suspense.

The film straddles numerous genres, oscillating between psychological drama and chilling horror, and even punctuating the narrative with elements of black comedy. The stark black and white imagery further compliments the overall tone of the movie. Director José Pedro Lopes uses this element masterfully, lending a new dimension to the horror genre. It elevates the eeriness, making the horror feel more intimate and fathomable. The monochromatic palette enhances the myriad emotions from melancholy to fear, draping the entire film in an air of haunting beauty.

The screenplay deserves applause for its intelligent crafting and close observation of human behavior when confronted with existential dread. Even the fleeting emotions, like disturbing happiness, unsettling silence, and impulsive fear, are meticulously captured, making the narrative all the more engaging.

Music plays a significant part in the movie experience. From its quiet beginning to the thrilling climax, the background score stays in unison with the ever-fluctuating mood of the film. The shifting tempos and mounting tension in the score evoke a chilling anticipation that keeps the viewers hooked till end.

Forest of Lost Souls is about more than suicide or despair. It's a somber reflection on existentialism, loneliness and life's often overlooked absurdities. With its stunning black-and-white visuals, underlining of existential themes, and gripping performances from Daniela Love and Jorge Mota, the movie offers a unique spin on the traditional horror-drama genre.

It’s an intriguing reel that keeps you riveted, largely due to its atmospheric storytelling and the compelling performances of its lead actors. Those drawn to psychological thrillers with a penchant for philosophical undertones will find Forest of Lost Souls particularly engrossing. The film delivers much more than traditional horrors and is a must-experience cinematic feat for lovers of this genre.