Nominated for Spirit of Raindance Award
In the wake of an environmental collapse that is forcing humanity to shed 20% of its population, a family dinner erupts into chaos when a father’s plan to enlist in the government’s new euthanasia program goes horribly awry.
Humane presents a stark vision of a future in which a “voluntary” euthanasia law has been passed to combat the devastating effects of climate change. The story centres around a well-to-do family who gather for a tension-filled dinner, only to discover that one of them will be “volunteered” by the night’s end.
Caitlin Cronenberg’s directorial debut is both a gripping eco-thriller and a darkly comic family drama. Tension at the table builds as dinner progresses – the dialogue is spiky and the sense of impending doom is palpable. Jay Baruchel shines as the fast-talking, morally ambiguous son, embodying a character that is both comical and tragic in his reluctance to face the consequences of his ideals.
Visually, Humane bears the polished yet raw aesthetic characteristic of Caitlin Cronenberg’s photographic work. Veteran cinematographer David Koch expertly plays with shadows and light, enhancing the claustrophobic feel of the family gathering and the thematic darkness of the plot. Michael Sparaga’s taut script expertly handles the macabre comedic elements which serve as a perfect counterbalance to the film’s heavier themes, providing relief while also deepening the horror of the situation.
With Humane, Caitlin Cronenberg makes a bold entry into filmmaking, capturing the eerie charm and unsettling storytelling synonymous with her family’s name.
Review by Elliot Grove
