“Settlers” is a sci-fi film about a group of characters who are among the first settlers on the new Martian frontier. The core characters seen in the film are parents Reza (Jonny Lee Miller), Ilsa (Sofia Boutella) and daughter Remmy (played primarily by Brooklynn Prince and later Nell Tiger Free). They’re simply trying to survive the elements. When another player, Jerry (Ismael Cruz Cordova), is introduced into the film, dynamics change. Then, it becomes a very layered sci-fi drama with layers of western.
The film is told in a three-chapter structure with the throughline always being Remmy. This helps the film’s pacing as it’s able to explore different tones throughout the film. These chapters made me think of this as a relay race passing the baton between actors. This is especially in the way that Brooklynn Prince passes the character of Remmy to Nell Tiger Free. We see their similarities in performance. However, each version feels unique. This is especially because because Prince’s 9-year-old Remmy is fundamentally different than Tiger Free’s 18-year-old Remmy. The performances from the entire cast all feel layered and that’s one of the strongest aspects of “Settlers.”
There are times where “Settlers” becomes very dark, but that’s part of what makes it so unique. This is mostly through how these characters adapt and find ways to survive. There are ever-changing dynamics in this film that kept me on my toes. It’s so standoffish at times.
As well, their small compound set looks amazing. The film’s shot on location in South Africa, and the way director Rockefeller and cinematographer Willie Nel capture the essence of Mars is great. It really helps the tone of the film, as well, as a story about isolation, growing up fast, and survival.
The interview
I was able to speak with the film’s writer and director, Wyatt Rockefeller, for this edition of The Movie Buff Show which is now available to watch on YouTube. In our conversation, we discuss how Wyatt went from the energy sector to filmmaking. We speak about the inspiration behind “Settlers,” “a sci-fi western without horses or space suits,” and shooting in South Africa. As well, he talks about a lesson he took away from working with this great cast as a first-time feature filmmaker. There’s some more in between, and you can catch that through the embedded video above by watching it here, or watching it on YouTube.
“Settlers” is now available to watch in theatres through IFC Films, and is also available On Demand, with some viewing options right here.
*Podcast music courtesy of bensound.com.
