Review of Wetlands (2013) by Tony B — 15 Jan 2015

'Wetlands' signals the breakthrough for actor Carla Juri. She is incredible as 18-year-old Helen running around wreaking havoc, causing trouble, and finding new and inventive ways to go against the grain of society. In many ways, this is one of the most screwed up family dramas I've seen. Or is it a tale of tested friendship? Or is it a young girl's maturation and finding one's self? Or is it a love story?

Whatever it is, it's told in a very unconventional way. Sure it's a gross-out movie on the surface, and believe me there are a few cringe-worthy moments, but that all just seems more like an excuse to get people to watch what is otherwise still a good story underneath.

I swear at times Juri reminded me of a young Meg Ryan, though German. She went through tons of emotions in this film from seduction to sadness and euphoria to intrigue. Near the end when her character starts taking drastic measures for attention, or is it a depression she's fallen into suddenly because of her reoccurring dream, Juri brings it across the screen with aplomb.

The sexual content and lack of hygiene in a majority of the scenes may turn off many of the viewers, but Juri's strong performance should keep you tuned in the entirety of the way. The soundtrack is sweet and the visuals are engrossing. Maybe wash your hands afterward.