Despite its charming visual style and engaging narrative, “Savages” emerges as a profoundly political animated film. It meticulously explores the critical issues of Indigenous rights and the devastating impact of corporate greed on tropical ecosystems, offering a compelling and deeply relevant commentary on environmental justice and social advocacy.
Directed by Claude Barras, the film continues his signature approach to animation, which avoids sugar-coating life’s harsh realities. Following his Oscar-nominated “My Life as a Courgette,” Barras reaffirms his unique directorial voice, often described as “Ken Loach for kids,” by tackling sensitive subjects with an unflinching yet accessible honesty for younger audiences.
The aesthetic of “Savages” retains the distinctive appeal of Barras’s earlier work, featuring characters with exaggerated heads and highly expressive eyes that convey a weathered, lived-in quality. This visual style beautifully contrasts with the broadened scope of the film, which delves into the intricate wonders and inherent dangers of a vibrant tropical wilderness, making every frame visually arresting.
At the heart of the story is Kéria, a young Swiss girl reluctantly brought back to Borneo by her father, who is employed by the ruthlessly exploitative Green Forest Company. Initially disconnected from her Indigenous heritage, Kéria’s journey takes a poignant turn as she forms an unbreakable bond with Oshi, a baby orangutan tragically orphaned by relentless logging operations.
The narrative skillfully portrays the initial struggles of the mismatched trio as they navigate various natural hazards, from torrential downpours to venomous snakes, within the untamed jungle. This struggle is set against the backdrop of the logging company’s calculated efforts, which involve legal manipulations and overwhelming force to impose their will on the Indigenous community.
As Kéria gradually reconnects with her ancestral roots amidst the lush vines and dense undergrowth, she undergoes a significant transformation. Empowered by her newfound understanding, she becomes increasingly determined to take militant steps against the encroaching logging company, symbolizing the vital struggle for land and cultural preservation.
The film doesn’t shy away from earthy displays of defiance, such as an Indigenous elder’s symbolic act of contempt towards a bribe, underscoring the raw determination required for resistance. It powerfully conveys that mounting an effective defense against such forces demands not only bravado but also profound grit, self-knowledge, and strategic ingenuity, highlighting the immense challenges in halting “progress.”
While addressing complex political themes, “Savages” ensures accessibility for younger viewers through its engaging “monkey business” and the availability of both original French and English dubs. The visually arresting stop-motion animation, coupled with the endearing presence of a mischievous baby orangutan, ensures the film remains entertaining without diluting its serious message.
Ultimately, the themes of ecological damage and profound social injustice are so intrinsically woven into the fabric of “Savages” that viewers, regardless of age, are likely to emerge with a burning conviction that urgent action is needed. This enduring sense of purpose and call to awareness distinguishes the film as a truly impactful cinematic experience.
