2022 SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL REVIEW!
A young couple, credited only as “girl” (Natasha Sill) and “boy” (Joey Hirsch), go about their day in a world of confusion and angst. Ratking is the story of this couple as they navigate a series of obstacles when all they really want to do is go to the beach. And, just maybe, when life gives you lemons, you take yourself to the beach.
Ratking opens to the girl recounting an experience of hers that is incredibly sexual, but even more confusing. As the words pour from Sill’s mouth and the story eventually comes to a head, I had to sit here in confusion, completely befuddled by what was just said. Other than this actually happening (and I can’t wrap my head around this actually happening), I can’t figure out how writer-director Eric Colonna could create a story so absurd. Nothing makes sense at this point, except for the fact that nothing makes sense. Not much more time passed before I came to the conclusion that confusion and the idea that nothing really ever makes sense is Colonna’s plan–and if it is, he’s immensely successful. I regularly find myself thinking that nothing in the world makes sense, and to see that sentiment present throughout Ratking is sort of a breath of fresh air (especially to know that I’m not the only one that feels this way).
Furthermore, Colonna touches on the idea that you shouldn’t let others ruin your day or change the trajectory of your journey. As the couple sees a number of minor issues slowly pick apart their trip to the beach, the understanding that they could be on their merry way, without a care in the world, is within reach–but they have to focus on themselves.
Back to that opening anecdote. As Sill expresses the oddities of her character’s experience it becomes abundantly clear that Sill possesses great talent. Sill has an expressive face, but there's something delectably simple about her delivery throughout Ratking. Her ability to be so akin to basic human emotion, and her ability to convey emotions resonate with viewers. Within the telling of that story (which sounds exactly like one of those ridiculous nightmares where you wake up and realize how absurd it was), Sill is able to bridge a gap between viewers and the overall film. Her prowess emanates from the screen and grabs viewers by the hand, and she beautifully, and without flaw, guides them through Ratking.
There’s an overarching feeling that something bad is about to happen, and whether it does or doesn’t eventually come to fruition in Ratking is irrelevant. The cinematography, score, and acting presents viewers with what feels like real drama, and the deafening feeling that something terrible lies just around the corner is enticing. The combination of every single aspect of Ratking lends itself to the overall drama of the film, and as viewers anticipate whatever might happen next, the film becomes progressively more gripping.
Ratking explores the human psyche and the hardships of everyday life (and of relationships). It feels genuine in its expression, and it’s able to capture a strange reality that most viewers may not even realize exists in their day-to-day life. There’s a beautiful marriage of cinematography, sound, and acting (from everyone–but particularly Sill) that allows Ratking to flow brilliantly. It’s one of a kind, beautiful, and honest; it has all the makings of a great success.
Written & Directed by Eric Colonna.
Starring Natasha Sill, Joey Hirsch, Henry Gerse, & Tyler Hammond.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐½/10
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