(spoiler free)
Quebec’s first film to be produced as a Netflix original comes in the form of Patrice Laliberté’s The Decline or as it’s known in French, Jusqu’au déclin. The film sees six survivalists journey to a remote location in Nord-du-Québec for the purpose of expanding their survivalist training and knowledge. However, after an accident occurs the groups training gets put to the test in a much more real way than they were expecting.
The film begins well, immediately immersing audiences into the mentality and lifestyle of the survivalist characters that it presents. Assembling this group of strangers makes for an interesting collection of characters and the film allows us the chance to somewhat get to know each of them as they begin their training. Discussions arise about “what if” scenarios, the very ones that they are preparing for. And it’s through these conversations that we get glimpses of who these people really are. Coincidentally this type of dialogue is all the more fascinating given the current worldwide situation we find ourselves in. This engaging set up is built upon further when the aforementioned accident occurs, dividing the film clearly into two sections: the before and the after, allowing audiences to see how these characters really react when put to the test.
The excellent setting for the film, a private five-hundred acre, dense snow-covered forest, is utilised very well and captured beautifully by cinematographer Christophe Dalpé. Whilst large in scale overall it still manages to feel claustrophobic and isolated. Audiences are introduced and educated about it in the first half of the film and then in the second the characters are fully unleashed to explore and to use it to its full potential. Playing out like a level of a video game housed in a villain’s lair from a James Bond adventure The Decline executes it concept in a highly satisfying fashion. Furthermore, the performances of the cast are good as well, demonstrating the titular downward spiral of community, communication and calm very effectively.
Whilst a moral conundrum leading to a dangerous dispute isn’t a particularly original concept, when its delivered as strongly as it is here this doesn’t matter. Its unique angle thanks to the specific nature of its characters and the fantastic setting help to create an enthralling action thriller with ethical undertones that will effortlessly entertain its audience.
Written by Hamish Calvert
★★★
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