There are just SO many films out there! You see two to three wide releases on a weekend with a handful more in limited release. Throw out at least a dozen more on VOD or streaming and now you have an overload of content. But we only have so many hours in the day, and we must be thoughtful towards what we dedicate that precious free time to. That is the point of this series of articles giving you specific reasons why you should run out to your nearest multiplex, drive to search for that limited release, drop some money in the virtual cinema, or to surf those streaming services. Here on The Wasteland Watchlist, you will find some reasons to check out the latest and greatest of films including…Landscape with Invisible Hand (theaters August 18th)
Cory Finley
This is a teenage coming-of-age film with aliens coming from the director of Thoroughbreds and Bad Education? That is a fascinating prospect, and this film certainly reflects that. Finley is a great talent specifically at taking scenarios, finding morbid humor about it, and not pulling any punches. This is a film about the deconstruction of human society when we give ourselves to “benevolent” aliens. There is so much to unpack, and Finley certainly turns over every stone. There are plenty of uncomfortably funny moments. There are poignant moments that will make your stomach sink. There are plenty of ideas and scenarios that will get your brain going as well. Finley makes a perfect concoction that is worth experiencing.
The Concept
Have we seen many alien invasion films quite like this? We see plenty focusing on the invasion and violence and destruction that results. But this film looks post-contact. These characters live in a world already greatly impacted by the aliens already. How will our society react to high intelligence and more advanced technology? What will humans do to each other to garner the graces of our “benevolent” alien overlords? This is such an intriguing concept and Finley unabashedly goes all in on this film.
The Themes
What does Landscape with Invisible Hand have to say? There is SO much for the audience to ponder. There is a biting satirical look at leadership and authority. The way the film maneuvers how those in power abuse through neglect, prejudice, and control is fascinating. There is an uncomfortable look at human nature and how we show resilience, greed, and apathy. All these complex issues when it comes to humans are challenging and Finley can do something of substance, intelligence, and a bit of bite as well. This film is an experience of ideas and allegory, and Finley was ready for this challenge. He delivered in those aspects for sure.
Music
What an eerie mix of musical themes that are delivered by composer Michael Abels? This is the man who helps create the atmosphere that has excelled in the works of Jordan Peele. Landscape with Invisible Hand has an otherworldly and foreign feel and that is in no small part due to Abels. The aethereal synth music that captures a classic science fiction feel is the highlight. But the darkly intense musical beats are the ones that burrow under the skin. Abels work with Peele helped elevate the horror and thrills and it does much of the same in Finley’s film. This is never quite “horror” but there are shockingly dark moments, and the music helps accomplish those unexpected moments.
Art
How can a director get creative with their characters? Our lead in Landscape with Invisible Hand is a young black teenager, Adam (Asante Blackk). He is an artist. The film opens with a montage of his art pieces that set up plenty of exposition without having to say a word. That is incredibly impressive. Finley proves to be a talented visual storyteller with his efforts here. We see the evolution of Adam’s art and his talents become one of the most significant concepts in the film. But it is the manipulation of his talents by these aliens that delivers one of the greatest moments of the film. The layers that Finley realizes with Adam’s art is something to be in awe of. This is a strong (if flawed) film that never skimps on the finer details. /
