A Closer Look at ‘Against Nature’: A Cinematic Exploration of Humanity’s Darker Realities

Alejandro (Jonás), a stonemason navigating the isolated landscapes of rural Mexico, becomes a vessel for unspoken trauma in Axel Bertha’s debut feature. The film, set to premiere at KVIFF’s Proxima program on July 9, delves into themes of alienation, violence, and humanity’s fractured relationship with nature through a minimalist yet haunting aesthetic.

Building on a real murder case from Mexican news archives, Bertha crafted a narrative devoid of traditional dialogue. Instead, the story unfolds via sound design and visual composition, creating an immersive experience that mirrors Jonás’s psychological unraveling. The protagonist’s silence contrasts with the film’s ambient textures, as he confronts a past that refuses to stay buried.

Shot on 35mm film in challenging conditions, the production emphasizes authenticity. Bertha spent six months living in the filming location, ensuring its atmospheric details seep into every frame. This commitment extends to the cast of non-actor locals, whose performances add a raw, unfiltered dimension to the film’s exploration of human cruelty and existential dread.

The film’s soundtrack, composed by Ela Minus and Ariel Guzik, amplifies its unsettling tone. Critics describe it as “a dark sphere” reflecting Jonás’s inner turmoil. The Director of Photography, Flavia Martínez, notes that the visual style intentionally blurs the line between the spiritual and the physical, reinforcing the film’s central question: Does humanity’s progress equip us to heal or further divide us from nature?