Blanka

Audience Reviews

View All (1) audience reviews

dustin d Blanka is a charming movie about an unlikely friendship between a homeless child and an old, blind man. It has an occasional false note, such as a soundtrack that sounds calibrated for the international film festival circuit at times, and some moments that are too cutesy. But it succeeds in the genuineness of the portrayal of Blanka by newcomer Cydel Gabutero under Kohki Hasei's direction. She is sympathetic, but is no saint. She does what she has to do to survive, though with a child's understanding of the world and morality. She can be just as nasty and cruel as the boys on the street, who gleefully trash the lean-to she calls a home. The movie doesn't portray the poor as innocent victims of an oppressive society, but as survivors who are capable of oppression among themselves. We're asked to understand why they do what they do, but not necessarily to approve of it. Gabutero has undeniable screen presence for someone so young. From the first shot, which shows a crowd and her approaching from the background at a distance, our eyes are drawn to her, even before she comes into focus. This could have been a trick of the camera, but it could also indicate she has that something that distinguishes a star from an actor. When she sings, she also demonstrates a powerful voice one wouldn't expect from someone so small. Blanka is a good indie film with a surprisingly solid performance from a child actor. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 03/31/23 Full Review Read all reviews

Blanka

My Rating

Read More Read Less POST RATING WRITE A REVIEW EDIT REVIEW