Gaia

South Africa 2021, 97 minutes
Dir. Jaco Bouwer
In English, Afrikaans with English subtitles
Rating: [R16] Violence, offensive language, sex scenes and content that may disturb
Genres: Horror, Suspense/Crime

Topics: Eco-friendly.

Feat. Monique Rockman, Carel Nel, Dick Van Dyke, Anthony Oseyemi

Aroview: Visually striking South African eco-horror about an injured forest ranger on a routine mission who is saved by two off-the-grid survivalists. The rescue is initially welcomed until is it revealed that the pair exhibit a cultish devotion to the natural world, reverentially consuming the mushrooms that grow in the muggy jungle they live in.

A wonderfully unnerving film with a well crafted atmosphere that builds effective tension while remaining philosophically resonant throughout. Set in South Africa's primeval Tsitsikamma National Park.