There are not many films which have had me spellbound. This is one of the few.
Not for those who like action which satisfactorily resolves dilemma and satisfying heroics, The Survivalist examines in subtle detail some of the most fundamental issues ever discussed in drama; the 'big' subjects of faith, betrayal, fear, love and self-preservation. Where Shakespeare used lots of words, this uses glances, reflections and movements. It is amazing how so much can be conveyed in this way; the viewer is allowed to realise his/her intelligence and aptitude for mind reading.
In some movies, some things are better left unsaid.
The actors are just brilliant, in particular the central character who portrays very effectively the behaviours of someone who is forgetting how to communicate. It made me refelct upon the myriad ways of communication we take for granted now and what might happen if we were forced to live without them.
I feared it would be as bleak as The Road but it operates on a more intimate, and therefore manageable scale, which to me makes it more accessible. It also has a variation in atmosphere, an escape from relentless gloom. We are drawn into an intense domestic drama and kept guessing from beginning to end.
I would highly recommend this film to anyone who likes to be to be immersed in a savage and tender human drama with room to ponder and reflect. In fact if you fall into that category, I would URGE you to seek out this gem.
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