Invisible

Invisible, released in 2017, is a heart-wrenching and thought-provoking Argentinian drama that catapults viewers into the harsh, gritty reality of life in Buenos Aires. Directed by the talented Pablo Giorgelli, the film presents an intense portrayal of the trials, tribulations, and everyday struggles of its young protagonist. This critically acclaimed masterpiece features a compelling performance by Mora Arenillas, who is exceptionally supported by Mara Bestelli and Diego Cremonesi.

Arenillas plays the seventeen-year-old Ely, a schoolgirl living in Buenos Aires, grappling with a life filled with responsibilities beyond her years. Arenillas’ extraordinary portrayal of Ely brings forth the character's internal turmoil and emotional complexity in a brilliant, no-holds-barred manner. Ely is forced to juggle her academics, part-time job at a local pet shop and look after her emotionally unstable single-mother, played by Mara Bestelli.

Ely's life takes a new, complicated turn when she finds out she is pregnant. The audience watches Ely grappling with this new responsibility, and the way she navigates her fears, hopes, and anxieties makes for compelling viewing. The film does not shy away from presenting the gloomy realities and tough choices Ely has to face, and Arenillas does justice to her intricately complex character.

Mara Bestelli's portrayal of Ely's mentally unsettled mother adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. Bestelli’s character drifts in her own world, leaving her daughter Ely to fend for herself. Their relationship plays a critical role in the film, highlighting their individual hardships, and the ways in which they continuously fail to connect on an emotional level given their unique struggles.

Diego Cremonesi, in the role of Ely’s boyfriend, brings a sense of authenticity and believability. His part although seemingly simple plays an integral role in the narrative and adds a dimension of realism to the movie. Their relationship is both beautiful and bitter, shedding light on the dynamics between young lovers caught up in an unexpected predicament.

True to its title, Invisible, focuses on the idea of invisibility, specifically on how significant issues can often become invisible in the clamor of everyday life. It is a remarkable commentary on the societal attitudes towards teenage pregnancy, and the difficulty of navigating through adolescence amidst personal and societal pressures.

Pablo Giorgelli, known for his minimalistic and restrained style of storytelling, presents this hauntingly realistic narrative in a distinctive manner. The movie employs a stripped-down approach, concentrating more on the protagonist's psychological turmoil than on gratuitous drama. Giorgelli’s direction blends both the narrative and cinematic elements seamlessly, making the film a compelling visual experience.

The cinematography by Diego Poleri shines throughout the film, capturing the rawness and austerity of Buenos Aires. The grayscale color palette casting moody shadows and stark contrasts over the city and its characters further accentuates the melancholy and undercurrent tension running throughout the film.

The film's subtle narrative is heightened by the judicious absence of a distinct musical score. Instead, the movie leans heavily on the ambient sounds of Buenos Aires, thus projecting a truthful representation of Ely’s life and circumstances.

The themes that Invisible address are profound and engage with reality without sugar-coating the truth. It takes its audience on an emotional journey through the marginalized fringes of society, explored with great sensitivity and nuance. It manages to strike an intimate chord, making viewers introspect, empathize, and reflect on the protagonist's predicament as well as the larger societal dynamics at play.

Invisible isn't just a movie; it's a stark showcase of realism. It asks unsettling questions and refuses to provide easy answers, leaving the viewers to ponder long after the end credits roll. The combination of excellent performances, compelling narrative, and enigmatic cinematography make Invisible a must-watch for anyone who appreciates thoughtful, sensitive, and well-crafted cinema.