Animalia is a 2023 French-Moroccan science fiction film directed by Sofia Alaoui. The story follows Itto (Oumaïma Barid), a pregnant woman who looks forward to a quiet day alone after her husband, Amine (Mehdi Dehbi), leaves for a business trip. Having grown accustomed to the detached opulence of her affluent new family, Itto has lost touch with her modest Berber origins. Her plans are abruptly shattered when a mysterious state of emergency is declared nationwide, and she struggles to find help amidst increasingly ominous events and strange weather phenomena that suggest a supernatural presence.
As Itto frantically searches for a way back to Amine, she encounters a new world order that offers unexpected emancipation and solace. The sci-fi elements serve as a backdrop, highlighting the stark contrast between the experiences of Morocco’s privileged elite and the majority of its population. The film explores how the wealthy perceive reality and spiritual life differently, prompting deeper questions about religion and societal inequalities.
Animalia premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival to a positive reception, with critics praising Alaoui’s direction, the performances of Barid and Dehbi, and the film's stunning visuals of Moroccan deserts and rural life. Through Itto's journey, the film presents a suspenseful narrative that challenges beliefs about the unseen world and human connections.
The only issues with Animalia lie in the vagueness of the danger and (often because of this) the occasional thinness of the plot. Because the sci-fi themes are so subdued, we get a lot of mixed messages about what exactly is going on. From the get-go, the cinematography is excellent, providing stunning visuals. The film’s use of color is stunning and thematic, lending to a sense of unease and alienation.
The commentary on wealth serves as an excellent bridge to the suspense of realizing something is wrong with not just the animals, but the people as well. Outstanding pacing and some hints of great ecological thrillers such as The Birds make Animalia Morocco’s crown jewel of cinematic achievement. Public library patrons who love thrillers or are interested in North African culture will want to see Animalia. Highly Recommended.
Where does this title belong on public library shelves?
Animalia belongs on public library shelves in the science fiction section, particularly within collections that focus on international cinema or films that explore cultural and societal themes. Given its strong suspense elements and its exploration of Moroccan culture and societal issues, it would also be a valuable addition to world cinema or foreign film sections. Its critical acclaim and thematic depth make it suitable for inclusion in curated displays that highlight significant contemporary films or works by emerging international directors.