BERLINALE 2020 - Entre perro y lobo

70th BERLINALE FILM FESTIVAL © José Alayón

Irene Gutiérrez' Entre perro y lobo is a quaint and stoic boiling pot of brewing isolation and political fury that has no name and no reason, but the push for struggle and survival is one that defines three military veterans and their purpose with grave uncertainty.

Gutiérrez' film is one that throws its viewer into a boiling pot of thematic weight. An intense directionless atmosphere from its first to last seconds utterly strangles the feature with terrific, engaging results. There is no clear idea of what these characters are doing or what their order is, yet their disposition to conquer and continue a war without an enemy or face is continuously reiterated. A factor that undeniably shapes what experience this enigmatic feature is going to be. 

The themes of isolation and devastation are profound and compelling. More or less removing all dialogue and focusing solely on diegetic sound within the Cuban jungle is a tantalising and harrowing experience to witness but is emphasised and curated with stoic brilliance from sound designer Carlos E. García.

Even when the screenplay is minimal from writer-director Irene Gutiérrez and co-writer Lisanda López Fabé, it speaks in loud volumes when allowed with moments of profound ability that serenade the feature. Voices and sparks of purpose reel the screen time. Confusion and neglect fill the void of identity and without a doubt, it’s what is not said aloud that has the loudest of voices and biggest impact.

Irene Gutiérrez' film Entre perro y lobo maybe stoic and silent but its voice on political poisoning and isolation of identity and mind is loud and clear. A tremendously crafted vague and cold drama that speaks through silence.