Parvulos: Children of the Apocalypse is a story about family and change in a world that has been ravaged by a deadly virus. Three brothers live alone in an isolated house deep in the woods. They live off of the land and depend on each other for survival. But in the basement they house a dark secret whose discovery can change the lives of anyone who comes in contact with it.
It may sound like a straightforward tale, but there is a lot happening here. The cold open gives an idea of the harshness of the new world. It is only one lonely part of the entire planet, but it is enough to let audiences in on how desolate things have become. There is no electricity or running water and it appears as if the siblings are the only ones to have survived. The brothers also talk about a monster that can kill them at any time.
Parvulos has three distinct acts that are tied together in a melancholic tale of kinship, trust, and coming of age. The first part includes the film’s biggest revelation and begins to shape its narrative about familial bonds. Though it is filled with darkly cute and funny moments, it is never lighthearted. Even during these happier times there is a constant sense of dread.
The importance of family continues to be an important theme during the middle portion of the movie when a stranger stumbles across the brothers’ home. It is a tense and uncomfortable night for the boys and threatens to drive a wedge between them. Again, there are touching moments that see the trio forced to face difficult decisions. Much like the earlier act, everything that happens leads to the thrilling finale.
The final act is the most action packed while also being filled with some of the saddest moments of Parvulos. All the talk of family and each choice made earlier come to a head in the last minutes. It is in the end, that the strength of the writing is seen. There has been no wasted motion leading up the climax as even newer characters will resonate emotionally with anyone watching. A well done epilogue brings a sense of closure to it all.
Parvulos: Children of the Apocalypse is an intense watch filled with heart. After beautiful shots of forest animals, the rest of the film takes on a faded look that matches the ruined world. The gorier scenes are well spaced out and always effective. It is surprisingly relatable as its story of family and monsters deals in real life scenarios that have been ratcheted up to eleven. This is easily one of the best horror movies of the year.
Parvulos: Children of the Apocalypse comes to on demand June 17.
Parvulos: Children of the Apocalypse: Mexican horror movie may be the best of the year
Parvulos: Children of the Apocalypse
Takes familiar genre tropes in surprising directions. An emotionally powerful story about family and change that is one of the best horror movies of the year.
Great writing that leads to emotionally impactful moments
Easy to get invested in every character
Some good gore
Does have some graphic animal violence
10
Fantastic
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