Bardo, False Chronicle Of A Handful Of Truths Review: Visually Immersive But Lacks Substance
Five-time Academy Award-winner Alejandro G. Iñárritu reteams with screenwriting partner Nicolás Giacobone to deliver another visually immersive epic about identity, mortality, and success. Intertwining these concepts with Mexican history and familial bonds, director Iñárritu reimagines the meaning of "midlife crisis" with beautiful scenery and breathtaking sequences that are sure to take audiences on a long adventure full of artistry and emotion.
SCREENRANT VIDEO OF THE DAY The story follows Silverio Gama, a renowned Mexican journalist and documentary filmmaker living in Los Angeles. After being named the recipient of a prestigious international award, Silverio is compelled to journey to his native country, Mexico, to reflect on where it all began. During his stay, he begins to experience an existential crisis, where the lines between reality and fantasy blur together to make Silverio question everything — even his sense of belonging.
There’s no denying that Bardo is a visually stunning epic from Iñárritu. The director’s return to shooting in Mexico for the first time since his 2000 picture Amores Perros fondly captures the culture with a celebratory and idolized feel. However, the script leaves much to be desired. At this point in his life, Silverio also battles his inner thoughts, which is compiled from the uncertainties he feels about his belonging and his ability as a filmmaker.
Another reason why all these elements don’t work on screen is due to the perspectives from which they’re shared. For example, the script spends time on Silverio’s family and competitors — offering their perspectives on the man Silverio is in lieu of Silverio being able to share that himself. Frankly, it’s an odd choice for a film that sells itself as one that questions identity and mortality because these thoughts come from everyone but him.
Ultimately, Bardo is an achievement in filmmaking that is worth celebrating despite taking too long to get to its compelling third act. It’s also a bit overstuffed with symbolism to represent the complications of life even though the journey towards unraveling them provides a fruitful watching experience. Bardo isn’t the type of movie to demand multiple watches, but there’s plenty to appreciate within the limitations of the script.
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