Watch Altiplano

Altiplano is a 2009 Belgian-Peruvian drama film directed by Peter Brosens and Jessica Woodworth. The film takes place in a remote Andean village in Peru, which suffers a tragedy when a group of tourists dies from a mysterious illness. This event causes a ripple effect that impacts the village's inhabitants and connected storylines. The main character of the film is Grace (played by Magaly Solier), a young Peruvian woman who is engaged to Luc (portrayed by Olivier Gourmet), a Belgian photographer. Grace is a trained nurse who has decided to stay in her small village instead of pursuing a career in a larger city. She becomes one of the few people who tries to care for the tourists as the town is under quarantine due to the spreading illness. Grace's fiancé is also in the town, trying to document the event through his photography.

As the plot unfolds, we see how the tragedy impacts the village on many levels. A tribe of indigenous Aymara women plays a key role in the film as their traditions and spirituality are explored. One of these women is Saturnina (Jasmin Tabatabai), who is trying to cope with the loss of her husband, a miner who died in a recent accident.

The film's themes revolve around the impact of globalization on indigenous cultures, cultural clashes, and the relationship between spirituality, nature, and death. The two directors, Brosens and Woodworth, combine stunning visuals with poetic dialogue to create a work of art that is both metaphorical and visceral.

The cinematography is one of the strongest aspects of the film. The Peruvian highlands are breathtakingly captured, as well as the intricate details of the villagers' daily lives. The directors make use of slow-motion and poetic montage to build a sense of tension and drama, as well as to pay homage to the Andean culture.

The acting is also a highlight of the film. Solier, who had previously starred in the acclaimed film "The Milk of Sorrow," delivers another excellent performance. Her portrayal of Grace is understated yet emotive, and she conveys the character's pain and frustration with a great deal of nuance. Olivier Gourmet, a Belgian actor known for his work in European films, is also outstanding as Luc, the photographer who is both fascinated and overwhelmed by the events unfolding in front of him. Tabatabai, an Iranian-German actress and singer, brings depth and complexity to the character of Saturnina, who struggles with the demands of tradition and the changing world around her.

The musical score by Michel Schöpping is haunting and atmospheric, enhancing the film's emotional impact. The film's use of sound is also notable, as it highlights the natural sounds of the region, including the sounds of wind, water, and animals.

In conclusion, Altiplano is a visually stunning and emotionally engaging film that explores complex themes with depth and sensitivity. The film's mix of cultural traditions, globalisation and nature's beauty makes for a unique cinematic experience. While the film may not be suitable for those who are looking for quick action and a straightforward narrative. It is a work of art for those who seek to delve deeper into the human experience.