Border
Border

Movie spotlight

Border

2021
Movie
60 min
Mandarin

In the middle of the strait between Kinmen and Xiamen, China, there are patches of sea filled with floating styrofoam and endless sand pilfering across the border. Huge business opportunities, and even greater land reclamations have scarred the beauty of the original rural landscapes for the sake of “ The Chinese Dream"—a dream that places economic achievements above all else.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Metacritic83/100
Google Users85%
Director: Ali AbbasiGenres: Fantasy, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

A Swedish customs officer named Tina, who has a uniquely powerful sense of smell, discovers she can detect hidden contraband and hidden emotions in travelers. While on duty, she becomes intrigued by a mysterious traveler named Vore, whose presence stirs a deep, inexplicable connection within her. As Tina delves deeper into Vore's life, she uncovers truths about her own identity and the strange, supernatural world she belongs to.

Critical Reception

Border received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its originality, unsettling atmosphere, and Eva Melander's performance. Critics praised its unique blend of social commentary, folklore, and gritty realism, though some found its surreal elements challenging.

What Reviewers Say

  • A remarkably original and unsettling fairy tale for adults.

  • Eva Melander delivers a captivating and transformative performance.

  • The film masterfully blends gritty realism with fantastical elements.

Google audience: Google users generally lauded the film's unique premise, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes. Many appreciated its departure from conventional storytelling and its dark, enchanting atmosphere.

Awards & Accolades

Winner of the Un Certain Regard prize at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival. Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay at the 72nd British Academy Film Awards.

Fun Fact

Actress Eva Melander underwent extensive prosthetics and makeup, taking up to four hours a day, to achieve Tina's distinctive appearance.

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