Making its highly anticipated world premiere at the 55th annual edition of The Directors’ Fortnight (Quinzaine des cinéastes) during the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, “LÉGUA,” directed by Filipa Reis and João Miller Guerra, takes audiences on a profound journey into the intricate realms of personal identity and human relationships.
At its core, “LÉGUA” delves into the profound impact of everyday objects on shaping our sense of self. The film immerses us in a meticulously staged representation of normalcy, where the act of cleaning and maintaining a sprawling home takes center stage. Through this lens, Reis and Guerra vividly depict the privileged Portuguese landowning aristocracy during their nineteenth-century heyday. While the film’s thematic echoes may be reminiscent of Chantal Akerman’s formalistic masterpiece “Jeanne Dielman, 23 Commerce Quay, 1080 Brussels,” “LÉGUA” explores a distinct narrative path, deviating from its predecessor’s themes.
A central motif in the film revolves around the filmmakers’ exploration of human connection, beautifully encapsulated in the tender portrayal of caring for an aging relative. The gentle scenes of Anna delicately washing Emilia’s weathered body while their hands intertwine symbolize the unspoken bond between the two women, evoking a sense of quiet tenderness.
Through its tranquil setting, “LÉGUA” weaves a poignant connection between the film’s serene community and the untouched wilderness that envelopes them. Hints of Terrence Malick’s “Days of Heaven” permeate the film’s depiction of pure wilderness and its denizens, but the sequence also holds a personal resonance, reflecting the directors’ own experiences. The closing scene, featuring the protagonist immersed in a placid pond amidst blinking creatures, evokes a lost paradise, far removed from the clamor and chaos of the outside world.
Patience is indeed a prerequisite for fully appreciating “LÉGUA.” The deliberate pace and the directors’ unwavering dedication to capturing the minutiae of mundane activities demand steadfast attention. However, the reward lies in the opportunity to engage with individuals who possess unique perspectives on life, perspectives that often elude us in our urban existence. The film presents a stark contrast between the silence within their world and the vibrant Portuguese pop music and passionate night parties that Anna’s engineering student daughter dreams of. It’s as if we exist in a realm of silence, disconnected from the beauty of our natural surroundings.
Within this silent universe, characters find solace and purpose in daily chores, such as washing dishes and tidying up the house. These rituals seemingly shield them from the cacophony of the outside world, allowing them to find a semblance of harmony amidst the chaos.
The exceptional cast of “LÉGUA” includes Carla Maciel as Ana, Fátima Soares as Emília, Vitória Nogueira da Silva as Mónica, Sara Machado as Sofia, Paulo Calatré as Victor, and Manuel Mozos as Guilherme. Their performances breathe life into the intricate tapestry of the film, adding depth and authenticity to its narrative.
Directed by Filipa Reis and João Miller Guerra, with a screenplay by Filipa Reis, João Miller Guerra, Sara Morais, José Filipe Costa, and Letícia Simões, “LÉGUA” stands as a testament to their visionary collaboration. Vasco Viana’s cinematography expertly captures the film’s essence, while Luísa Homem’s editing enhances its rhythm and flow.
The original score by Ricardo Jacinto and Hypogeo Colorista Alessandro Pelliccia serves as an evocative companion to the visuals, further immersing audiences in the film’s emotive atmosphere. Produced by Uma Pedra no Sapato, “LÉGUA” showcases the talents of a dedicated team committed to bringing this contemplative vision to life.
Luxbox has taken on the sales and distribution responsibilities for “LÉGUA,” cementing its place on the global stage, where it can resonate with audiences seeking profound introspection and genuine human connections.
“LÉGUA” invites viewers to embrace the power of silence, to reconnect with the natural world, and to reflect on the significance of the seemingly ordinary moments that shape our identities. Reis and Guerra’s film stands as a thought-provoking exploration of our existence and the subtle bonds that unite us all.
