Okja - Movie Review

naia-ash
Oct 9, 2017
2 min read

7.2/10

I am guessing that I am one of the late birds who caught this movie, and my review would be more clouded compared to the people who watched it without getting influenced by all the other reviews and comments this movie has received.

Half expected myself to tear, only because everyone surrounding me cried while watching the movie. But alas, I did not! Maybe because I was conscious not to cry, or perhaps, as rumour has it, I am heartless. Lol.

Two words to describe the movie on the whole - Thought provoking.

The movie managed to capture the reality and cruelty of slaughterhouses. (Yes, I felt guilty for most parts because I am not a vegetarian). I am pretty sure the movie was not meant to be a propaganda for vegetarians (the young lead eats fish), but it did ignite guilt in me as I am, like the many, a far cry from being a vegetarian.

I enjoyed the innocence and relationship between Okja (Superpig), and Mija (Young lead). It is refreshing and vital to know that there are still people who value relationships and/or kinship before any monetary gain(s) especially in this day and age. Mija did justice with her character as I did believe her fight for Okja. You will cheer her on as she makes her way to save her beloved Okja and manages to bring you back to your childhood days, only to wish that yours was a tenth as interesting as hers, (or at least that's what it did to me) Graphics were amazing, it's a kind of movie which is definitely cinema worthy. It's a pity I did not manage to catch it on the big screen. The story line and message is strong. Would I recommend it to kids? I don't know, I myself felt guilt, so I have no idea how kids will react to feeling such an intense emotion.

I have never seen Jake Gyllenhaal in this light before. Lol, but he played amazingly well, to the point that it seemed almost natural that he could be a real life psycho who used this movie to unleash his wacky side. Coming to think of it, he used to be one of those on my list of male actor crushes. Crucial words - used to.

The throwing in of the ALF (Animal Liberation Front), was realistic and it added a tad of humour to the movie to make it less heavy. It was also necessary as the movie would not have made as much sense if Mija had to rescue Okja on her own. For many people, their favourite would be Mija. Mine however, hands down was the ALF.

Not going to go in dept about the ending, as I wish for those who have not watched it to see it for themselves. Definitely worth your 2 hours over the weekend!

Love,

Naia