The Chalk Line (Jaula)

In this review of "The Chalk Line" (Jaula), a Spanish film distributed by Netflix and directed by Ignacio Tatay, we discover that even in this genre, there are hidden gems to be found. Tatay's thriller follows a somewhat familiar premise but manages to build tension effectively, immersing the audience in a crescendo of anxiety. Drawing inspiration from the psychological thriller genre, the film evokes shades of previous notable works from the Iberian Peninsula, most notably Juan Antonio Bayona's "The Orphanage," albeit without the supernatural elements. Like its predecessor, "The Chalk Line" intrigues with an enticing premise, unexpected twists, and a captivating lead performance.

October brings a plethora of thriller and horror titles to streaming platforms, riding the wave of viewers' renewed interest during the spooky season. Often, these films fail to leave a lasting impression and get lost among the multitude of genre productions flooding the schedules. However, Ignacio Tatay, a filmmaker from Madrid, manages to pleasantly surprise both industry insiders and the general public with his debut feature, "The Chalk Line" (Jaula), quickly climbing the ranks of most-watched films on Netflix in many countries.

The story revolves around Paula (Elena Anaya) and Simon (Pablo Molinero), a couple struggling to conceive a child. One fateful evening, while driving along a desolate country road, they encounter a young girl (Eva Tennear) walking alone, barefoot. Overwhelmed by shock, the girl collapses and is rushed to the hospital, where her critical condition is discovered. Unable to speak, the child, later known as Clara, establishes a connection only with Simon and Paula. To help her feel secure, the couple begins drawing chalk lines on the floor, expanding her limited movement as she gains confidence. After a few days, Clara utters a few whispered words in German, hinting at her potential origins. However, the mystery deepens when Clara suddenly vanishes, plunging Paula into despair. Did she run away or was she abducted? The resolution to this enigma may be much closer, and more disturbing, than Paula and Simon ever imagined.

As anticipated, "The Chalk Line" (Jaula) is a gripping thriller that steadily intensifies the tension. The exceptional performances, particularly Elena Anaya's portrayal of Paula, contribute to the film's success. Paula is a multifaceted and convincing character, simultaneously fragile, courageous, strong, and resilient. The bond she forms with Clara, portrayed by the talented Eva Tennear, evokes a mix of unease and innocent vulnerability, deeply affecting viewers. They sympathize with Paula, driven by her maternal instinct and fighting alone to protect the child she believes is hers. Paula's character bears resemblance to Laura, played by Belén Rueda in a similar vein.

The symbolic use of chalk lines, confining Clara's movements while simultaneously granting her a sense of freedom, is narratively effective. It adds a dual nature to the story, steering it in different directions. The lines on the floor serve as both a prison and a tool for Clara's growing liberty. This duality is also embodied by Clara herself, who, except for Paula, is suspected of occasional acts of unexpected violence, yet emanates fragility and innocence.

Although the film follows a somewhat conventional narrative path, it surprises viewers with its final act. Through a sudden shift in perspective, the mystery behind the child's origins is unveiled. This ending, although perhaps a bit rushed, leaves a lasting impact, revealing a shocking and undeniably human horror, dispelling any doubts of supernatural explanations. "The Chalk Line" (Jaula) pleasantly caught us off guard and is sure to be appreciated by both thriller aficionados and those who occasionally venture into this genre, especially during this time of the year.

The unexpected twist in the timeline, accompanied by a drastic change in tone and genre, represents the essence of a film that thrives on genetic mutation and keeping viewers on their toes. It defies initial expectations, morphing in shape, color, tone, and substance, gradually revealing the truth. "The Chalk Line" (Jaula) stands as a solid directorial debut, surpassing the stylistic and aesthetic standards set by most first-time directors.

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"The Chalk Line" (Jaula) masterfully constructs and maintains tension, making it highly engrossing. Elena Anaya delivers an exceptional performance, and the film's ending is truly surprising. Initially, viewers may be led to believe they are watching another fictional horror centered around a boogeyman or a sinister figure. However, the Spanish director, in collaboration with Isabel Peña during the writing phase, skillfully deceives the audience, presenting a lure that satisfies the expected themes and stylistic elements of the horror genre before transitioning seamlessly into the treacherous territory of psychological thrillers.