Filmmaker Alice Rohrwacher is on the cusp of making a good movie with La Chimera but, in a feigned and suspicious manner, the writer/director can’t help but break the reality of her story to satisfy her own needs.

Josh O’Connor (Mothering Sunday, God’s Own Country) has a striking presence as Arthur, an ex-con tomb raider who has an intimidating stature and sternness, but has difficulty integrating himself back into society.  While on the search for a woman he still loves, he’s recruited by his eccentric old clan who are transparent enough for Arthur to know they’re only interested in treasure hunting.  Arthur wants to break bad habits but, considering this may be the only way to reconnect with his lost love, he reluctantly tags along.

La Chimera is a peculiar movie, but not for intriguing reasons.  Rohrwacher never convinces the audience that the film has a plan and, instead, uses a slice-of-life structure to experiment with tones and styles (including film stocks).  The results are too jarring to be admirable and, just like Arthur’s crooked comrades, makes for an untrustworthy and fairly annoying film.

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Addison Wylie: @AddisonWylie