The Wait

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Hadi K The Wait (2023): A Slow-Burning Thriller with Missed Opportunities Directed by F. Javier Gutiérrez, The Wait (La Espera) stars Víctor Clavijo as Eladio, a groundskeeper entangled in a moral and supernatural dilemma. Set in the Andalusian countryside, the film explores themes of power, guilt, and nature's retribution. Eladio is tempted by a bribe to expand hunting stands on the estate he manages, leading to catastrophic consequences for his family. Víctor Clavijo delivers a compelling performance as Eladio, capturing his internal struggle with guilt and desperation. His portrayal is nuanced, making the character relatable despite his flaws. Gutiérrez's direction is atmospheric, using the rural setting to enhance the film's tension. However, the pacing is slow, which may test viewers' patience. The screenplay weaves a complex narrative that transitions from a crime thriller to folk horror. While this genre-blending approach is ambitious, it sometimes muddles the story's thematic focus. Cinematographer Miguel Ángel Mora captures the desolate beauty of the landscape, reinforcing the film's oppressive mood. Zeltia Montes' score complements the film's brooding atmosphere but occasionally overpowers subtle moments. The editing maintains a deliberate pace, which suits the film's slow-burn style but contributes to its drawn-out feel. The Wait delves into themes of greed, guilt, and class disparity. These are explored through Eladio's moral descent and the supernatural elements that emerge. However, the film struggles to balance these themes with its horror aspects, diluting its impact. Compared to Gutiérrez's previous work, this film lacks cohesion in its thematic execution. While The Wait offers strong performances and visual storytelling, its slow pace and thematic inconsistencies hinder its potential. Fans of atmospheric thrillers may appreciate its craftsmanship, but others might find it lacking in clarity and engagement. Overall, it earns a 2-star rating for its ambition but falls short in delivering a satisfying narrative experience. Rated 2/5 Stars •  Rated 2 out of 5 stars 10/26/24 Full Review Mask M Sometimes it feels as if the movie wants to resemble a Goya painting, the violence and the darkness are all there, it's definitely a slow burner so patience is needed and you must "wait" until it kicks. If you are interested in folk horror besides the norse or druidic pagan stories, this may interest you. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 10/15/24 Full Review A K awful movie, skip it forward. Do not waste ur time, watching this pos Rated 0.5/5 Stars •  Rated 0.5 out of 5 stars 10/11/24 Full Review Read all reviews

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