Against Nature, the feature directorial debut of Mexican filmmaker Axel Bertha, will world premiere on July 9, 2023, in the Proxima competition at the 60th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF). The film follows Jonás, a stonemason returning to the countryside, who embodies the mysterious forces of nature and humanity's darker sides.
Exploring Human Cruelty and Spirituality
Jonás's enigmatic character is central to the film's narrative, which blends physical and spiritual elements. According to the KVIFF website, he “opens himself up to something intangible—a force that permeates the landscape, bodies, and time itself.” The film's unique approach emphasizes sound design and a hypnotic visual style, promising an immersive experience.
The narrative hints at a looming catastrophe, with Jonás enacting a drama that seems born from nature itself. As stated in the press notes, “human cruelty is part of a cycle of destruction from which humanity has yet to find a way out.” This exploration of darkness challenges viewers to reflect on their own relationship with the world.
Production Insights and Filming Challenges
Written, directed, and produced by Bertha, Against Nature was co-produced by Domme, Cárcava Cine, and Love Song. The production faced significant challenges, including shooting on 35mm film under difficult weather conditions. Bertha even lived in the area for six months prior to filming, immersing himself in the local landscape and rhythms.
