Alix uses fiction and fantasy to depict innocence, innocence lost, and the tangible cycle of violence against children—especially little girls—forced to join a war.
Alix uses fantasy elements to weave a story that is at once stunning and comedic yet tragic and hopeful. Highlighting the real horror of young girls forced to be soldiers and partners for soldiers, Alix emphasizes childlike innocence. Much of the film is from Alix’s—played by Cristal Aparicio (Sound of Freedom, Bogota: City of the Lost)— viewpoint. Still, as adults, there’s an unrelenting unease and heartache throughout the film. Alix uses fiction and fantasy to depict innocence, innocence lost, and the tangible cycle of violence against children—especially little girls—forced to join a war.
Written and directed by Ana Maria Hermida (The Firefly), the movie starts lighthearted with quirky, childish, offbeat music. Alix runs around trying to snag a chicken for a meal. What stands out is her expansive imagination. It allows her to converse with nature. And these chickens, bugs, and other animals are lively conversationalists. However, though she finds friendship and joy in these animated conversations, her life in the Columbian forests is far from ideal. An abusive mom and pedophile stepfather create a situation of fight or flight. But neither poses a better option.
Alix Creates An Unlikely Bond
The film seeks to highlight how many children wind up as child soldiers. Even worse, young girls often end up in forced sexual relationships with other soldiers or those in higher ranks. When Alix first encounters Conejo, played by Roberto Urbina (Snowpiercer, Narcos), she goes with him to a camp with “family.” Her home life leaves her few options since her mother’s boyfriend is a threat. But their journey there demonstrates Alix’s broad imagination and starts rubbing off on Conejo.
On their journey, Alix portrays an unlikely friendship forming between the pair. Initially, it feels like another The Professional. So, there is a fear that of Conejo falling for the young girl. Fortunately, that does not happen. Conejo has a partner he loves, Marta, played by Natalia Reyes (Birds of Passage, Terminator: Dark Fate). As they grow closer, he vows to protect her. Although it’s hypocritical of him given the plans for her when they arrive at the camp. Alix is a phenomenal, wondrous film whose subject pairs wonderfully as a double feature with Rita.
A Stellar Highlight of The Loss of Innocence
When Alix begins, Alix constantly talks to or listens to animals and insects. She even tries to help Conejo hear the conversations of nature. It highlights both the innocence of Alix and the innocence lost in Conejo. Alix is what he, Marta, and the others of the camp once were—innocent. But as the story progresses, horrible things occur. Sadly, Alix talks to nature less and less. It shows the cost of forcing kids into situations no child should experience. The movie captures the heartbreaking loss without saying anything.
Redemption Does Not Mean Immediate Forgiveness
Forgiveness is not a given. Even when someone tries to earn it. Alix has a realistic portrayal of Alix’s response to Conejo’s betrayal. She doesn’t forgive him, and when he tries to touch her to help her escape, she jerks away. Some trauma runs too deep for an apology and redemption arc to heal. Alix, through her nightmarish visions of La Llorona, played by Carolina Guerra (Powder and Gold, The Damned), realizes it’s up to her to save herself. While Conejo helps, Alix gets them the advantage when their leader and pedophile Ramon, played by Carlos Bardem (Cell 211, Assassin’s Creed), gets ready to punish them.
Alix is an outstanding, magical, yet heartbreaking film that emphasizes the horror of child soldiers. The cast delivers in the best, Cristal Aparicio, and worst, Carlos Bardem, ways, leaning into their respective roles. Knockout performances include Natalia Reyes, whose character is tough but undergoes an emotional arc thanks to Alix’s natural kindness. And then there’s Cristal Aparicio, who conveys all that innocence and goodness with every movement and expression. Ana Maria Hermida’s Alix takes a heavy subject of child soldiers and innocence lost and instills a wonder captured in the keen eye of the lead and the vast, majestic forests.
