The Settlers (2023) Movie Review
The term "settle," usually a comforting word, might need to be reconsidered, especially when it comes to the colonization of land. Settling, in this context, is not peaceful—it's aggressive and even violent. Words have power; they can clarify, but they can also mask the truth or make something ugly seem acceptable. In Felipe Gálvez Haberle's first feature film, titled "The Settlers," he sheds light on the colonization of Tierra del Fuego, an area where chaos reigned and lawlessness was the norm. The film serves as more than a historical record; it forces the nation to confront a brutal past. The striking cinematography in "The Settlers" enhances its impactful message.
The Settlers (2023) Movie Review
"The Settlers" unfolds in the early 1900s, featuring European colonizers taking part in a land rush in South America. The Spanish play a major role in Chile, treating the Indigenous people with disdain and violence. The film begins with men building a fence in a wild field, where the wind is more than just a breeze; it roars like a menacing force. Alexander MacLennan, a British man in a red coat, commits a murder without any objections—a reign of terror. Segundo, a mixed-race Chilean, tries to stay unnoticed while working.
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Traditionally, Westerns were Hollywood's main genre, often glorifying one side without presenting the truth. Over time, there was a necessary shift to deconstruct these myths. "The Settlers" adds to this interrogation, shedding light on a dark chapter in history.
"The Settlers" is a direct and honest film, lacking any cleverness or hidden meanings. It doesn't wrap its actions in philosophy or irony. Some scenes are so disturbing that they're difficult to watch, and that's intentional. Similar to Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian," the movie unveils violence erupting unexpectedly in an apparently empty landscape, driving men to madness.
The main character, MacLennan, is portrayed as disturbed, but Colonel Martin, encountered later in the story, makes MacLennan seem rational. The cinematography by Simone D'Arcangelo plays a vital role, capturing the breathtaking yet ominous environment. The sunset light, while beautiful, carries a dark undertone, symbolizing the ongoing genocide. Harry Allouche's impactful score complements the visuals, creating a sense of gravity.
While the dialogue may be direct, "The Settlers" doesn't rely on it, except for the final section that shifts the mood and setting. The rare indoor scene is surprising and serves as a jolt. The epilogue emphasizes a clear message: the events on this land are a stain, an original sin. The film underscores the need for a country to confront its past, even though the reality of doing so is devastating.