In the remarkable new French film The Animal Kingdom, humanity is transforming. In a hurry.
This darkly imaginative exploration of a human ecosystem undergoing inexplicable—but potentially liberating—transformation takes place in the present day, as a wave of mutations gradually transforms some humans into avian-animal hybrids. These new creatures are not exactly welcomed into polite society, as fear, resentment and latent bigotry seek to take the upper hand. One family is torn apart as the mother exhibits symptoms, forcing the father and son to embark on a quest to save her.
The result is a “spellbinding magic-realist fable” (Deadline) that is “rippling with visual invention” (Screen Daily).
A huge hit in France, The Animal Kingdom opened the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes last year, and leads all films with 12 nominations at the upcoming Cesar Awards, including best picture, director, actor, screenplay, cinematography and music. The Cesars will be handed out on February 23.
The Animal Kingdom gets its American premiere as the opening film in Lincoln Center’s “Rendez-Vous with French Film” festival on Feb. 29.