Our Take on Levitating — Spiritual Chaos with a Cause
An unconventional drama that dances between possession and purpose, Levitating is a visual and emotional trip worth taking.
About Levitating
- Platform: other
- Release Date:
- Genres: Drama
In a town where pleasure equals being possessed by spiritual beings, Bayu aspires to be the shaman of a trance party so he can fundraise enough money to prevent an impending eviction.
WatchThisFlix Review
By WatchThisFlix Editorial Team
Levitating plunges us into the surreal world of a town where spiritual possession is the ultimate form of escapism. At the heart of this narrative is Bayu, a character portrayed with infectious energy by newcomer Ardy Haryo. His aspiration to become the shaman of a trance party is not just a career move but a desperate endeavor to prevent the eviction looming over his family. The plot cleverly intertwines Bayu's personal quest with the town's bizarre obsession, crafting a rich tapestry of themes around identity, community, and the blurred lines between control and chaos.
Director Maya Kartika, in her feature film debut, deftly balances the mystical with the mundane. She paints a vivid picture of a community that thrives on the edge of otherworldliness, yet is deeply grounded in economic realities. The film's visuals are a standout, capturing the hypnotic allure of the trance parties with a kaleidoscope of colors and dizzying camerawork that feels like an out-of-body experience.
However, Levitating is not without its flaws. The pacing occasionally stumbles, particularly in the middle act, where the narrative seems to drift without clear direction. Some secondary characters, while intriguing, are underdeveloped, leaving viewers craving more depth in their backstories.
Yet, the film compensates with its thematic depth, exploring the idea of possession—both spiritual and material—with nuance. It's a poignant commentary on how far individuals will go to grasp their desires, even if it means surrendering to forces beyond their control.
Levitating will appeal to those who enjoy dramas with a touch of the fantastical and are open to narratives that challenge conventional storytelling. It's a film that requires patience and willingness to embrace its quirks, but the payoff is a thought-provoking exploration of survival, ambition, and the human spirit.
In conclusion, while not perfect, Levitating offers a unique cinematic journey that resonates with the power of its visual storytelling and the earnestness of its lead performance. It's a daring debut for Kartika, promising a bright future in the realm of imaginative filmmaking.
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