Film Review: ‘Hedgehog’ directed by D. Mitry
Rating: ★★☆☆☆
Director D. Mitry’s short film “Hedgehog” delves into the human condition within the harrowing backdrop of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It paints a portrait of innocence and kindness amid turmoil, centering on six-year-old Nina in a remote Ukrainian village, discovering a wounded Russian soldier.
The film’s strength undeniably lies in its cinematography—a testament to visual storytelling prowess. It crafts evocative imagery, displaying a professional and aesthetically captivating visual narrative. The technical execution, encompassing camera work, mise-en-scène, and editing, remains commendable throughout.
However, the film suffers from narrative inconsistencies and an overbearing emotional tone that detracts from its impact. The screenplay, laden with gaping holes, attempts to force emotional resonance upon its audience rather than allowing the narrative to organically elicit empathy. Scenes are pieced together haphazardly, creating a sense of contrived sentimentality, undermining the authenticity of the characters’ emotions.
The film’s thematic metaphor, employing the hedgehog as a motif for vulnerability and compassion, presents an intriguing concept. Yet, the execution occasionally veers into heavy-handedness, lacking subtlety in conveying its message of defenselessness juxtaposed with innate goodness.
Performances by the cast, while believable, don’t rise to a level that merits exceptional praise. Characters lack depth, rendering their emotional arcs predictable and at times clichéd.
One aspect deserving recognition is the film’s attempt to depict the intrinsic kindness of Ukrainians, even towards those deemed adversaries. The symbolism of Nina and her connection with the wounded soldier attempts to underscore a narrative of empathy amidst conflict, but the delivery feels forced, lessening its impact.
The film’s narrative trajectory, marked by abrupt and simultaneous tragic occurrences, seems orchestrated solely to elicit an emotional response, resulting in a somewhat contrived and melodramatic presentation.
In its culmination, the film juxtaposes vulnerability and kindness, portraying the Russian soldier as a defenseless figure akin to a hedgehog without its spines. The imagery and symbolism here hold potential but are weakened by the film’s overarching emotional push.
Overall, “Hedgehog” is a visually captivating piece with glimpses of thematic depth. However, its narrative inconsistencies and forced emotional resonance hinder its ability to deliver a poignant and authentic exploration of humanity amidst conflict. Despite its technical prowess, the film falls short of creating a truly impactful cinematic experience.
