The Wave: A Bold Examination of Women’s Voices In Chilean Activism

Sebastián Lelio’s The Wave emerges as a significant cinematic exploration of social activism, tackling the pressing issue of sexual misconduct in educational institutions. With its roots inspired by real-life #MeToo demonstrations that occurred across Chilean universities in 2018, this musical drama centers around Julia, a fictional victim, as she evolves from a passive student to a vocal activist. The film’s premise serves as a compelling backdrop to delve into the power of collective action and the ongoing challenges women face in today’s society.

A Musical Revolution

Lelio, known for his Oscar-winning work in A Fantastic Woman, blends vibrant choreography with poignant storytelling. The Wave presents a concerted effort to break down traditional cinematic boundaries, melding music and movement to convey a story steeped in both urgency and activism. The film doesn’t shy away from its allegorical roots, drawing parallels to Todd Strasser’s iconic 1980s novel of the same name, where student movements spiral into fascistic undertones. However, unlike its literary predecessor, The Wave maintains a righteous course, focusing on the empowerment of women rather than descending into chaos.

The energetic choreography, led by Ryan Heffington, adds layers of expression to the narrative and underscores the emotional stakes involved. One standout musical sequence features a banner-declaring “THIS UNIVERSITY GRANTS DEGREES TO RAPISTS,” followed by a synchronized dance that challenges the authority of predatory figures in academia. Yet, despite its boldness, a critique emerges around the film’s dialogue, which sometimes feels overly declarative and simplistic.

Navigating Personal Struggles

Julia’s journey is marked by her transformation through the chaos surrounding her. Initially hesitant to assert her voice, she becomes embroiled in a patriarchal system that undermines her experiences. After facing sexual assault at the hands of a teaching assistant, Julia grapples with society’s skepticism towards survivors. Her evolution from victim to activist reflects the broader societal struggle that many Chilean women encounter.

What is fascinating is the portrayal of Julia as a composite character, representing both personal and collective struggles. Her story embodies the frustrations of a generation fighting against deeply entrenched misogyny, though it sometimes falls short on delivering a fully fleshed-out character arc. As she leads efforts to amplify the voices of others, the narrative attempts to weave together individual experiences into a collective anthem, yet some voices get lost in the mix of montaged familiar stories.

The Cinematic Language of Activism

Visually, The Wave employs a distinct style that invigorates the musical genre. Cinematographer Benjamín Echazarreta utilizes tracking shots that mirror the dancers’ movements, imparting a sense of unity and dynamism. The limited color palette, filled with deep blues and reds, plays into the film’s thematic explorations of power and vulnerability.

Despite its artistic merits, the film does face scrutiny for its dialogue and character development. Critics have pointed out that the bluntness of some exchanges and the lack of nuanced performances detract from the film’s stronger messages. However, its broader commentary on the hypocrisy of victim-blaming systems resonates well, especially as authorities often prioritize rhetoric of resilience over the collective entitlements to rage exhibited in student protests.

Conclusion

The Wave is not just a film; it’s a call to action, amplifying the voices of women in a context too often silenced. While it confronts the societal structures that allow violence against women to fester, it equally champions the power of collective storytelling. As audiences watch Julia’s journey unfold, they are reminded of the potential for change when voices unite. Sebastián Lelio’s attempt to address the complexities of female empowerment within a predominantly patriarchal society is undeniably ambitious. With The Wave, he invites us to reflect on not only the power of activism but the strength found in community and shared experience.

By spotlighting this narrative, Lelio encourages viewers to engage with the pressing societal issues of today, making The Wave a vital piece in the conversation around women’s rights and activism in Chile and beyond. As we continue to witness ongoing movements for equality, The Wave stands as a significant reminder of the voices that must be heard. For further exploration of related themes, check out our features on #MeToo movements, feminist cinema, and musical films.