My overall impression
I watched a lady turn into a fox, not with costuming, make-up, or elaborate props but with her body movement and face. I couldn’t take my eyes off of Kaplan. She brought an animal to life in a visceral way unlike anything I have ever seen before. There was one scene in particular that I keep thinking back on and in that scene, you see Kaplan’s face quickly shift from one emotion to another. It isn’t revealed what has changed yet, but you know by looking at her, that prey of some sort has entered the scene and my stomach dropped.
The tenderness in Turner’s performance sold me on the fantastical storyline. His portrayal of the joys and bitterness of love made the story grounded and honest where it otherwise could have been schlocky. I felt like I went on a journey with him. I got giddy when Silvia was reading to him because of the nervous energy he brought out and reeled back at his anger.
Howard should win all of the awards for his brilliant physical performance of the animals. He brought animal personalities to his movement! It wasn’t just his body, but his attitude and he nailed bringing all of these animals to life. There was a moment when I thought to myself, “Oh yeah. Ducks are totally like that. They’re little assholes.” It was amazing to watch. I wish I could say more about how great his performance was, but I lack the vocabulary because I’ve never watched people portray animals so well before.
You have to go watch these actors, and I choose that word intentionally. Look at them. They communicate so much with their bodies and it is incredible.
