Monos

From Colombia comes this war drama which can best be described as a cross between Apocalypse Now and Lord Of The Flies. The camera follows a group of very young armed guerillas who are assigned to watch over a female hostage in the Columbian jungles.

Long and graphic scenes of training sessions and strange rituals will shock, as these rowdy soldiers with strange names including Big Foot, Smurf, Swede, and Rambo display loyalty and love towards their military organisation.

Ambiguous at times, the story of this bizarre offering loses much in translation and unfolds slowly, progressively leaving audiences with more questions than answers.

Dark, raw and gritty this film is not for the faint-hearted as disturbing scenes, including that of a cow being slain and dismembered, may leave audiences feeling somewhat nauseous.

Mesmerising cinematography of beautiful Columbian terrain and a loud effective musical score gives credence to this alternative cinematic event which must be seen on the big screen. (MMo)

★★★ ½