NSFW Trailer
Wetlands is the kind of movie that creates a buzz the second it’s screened. Once you’ve seen the trailer, you’ll understand why. I was actually goofing off on social media when I first came across this clip. A post from Indiewire popped into my feed and when I saw the film described, as “gleefully disgusting” I knew I wouldn’t be able to resist. I was intrigued from the moment I pressed play. A few days later, on opening weekend, I headed to my local indie theater in search of a good time. By the time the opening credits started rolling, everyone in my theater—all seven of us—were ass deep in the disgustingly disturbing visual nature of Wetlands.
It’s baptism by fire with this girl because we’ve only just met and we’re already in a nasty public restroom watching her pee. Helen’s bright, cheerful, gross, beautiful, and getting to know her is fun. It's in this same restroom that she describes her unique approach to personal hygiene (and sex) as a series of experiments. It seems Helen rebels against everything, on every level.
Social norms are challenged, taboo subjects are broached & visceral reactions provoked, all through the story of a girl and her hemorrhoids. In case you haven’t guessed by now, this movie isn't for the squeamish. You’re going to want to get over that if you're looking to get into Wetlands.
Carla Juri who plays Helen is perfection. She’s inappropriately jovial, manic and quirky in the most disturbing sense of the word. Juri is the clear standout in this film and she does a contrastingly elegant job of conveying the complexities that the make up Helen’s psyche. Ultimately, Carla Juri is the only one keeping your eyes glued to the screen when every gut reaction is telling you to look away.
Meret Becker and Axel Milberg play Helen’s mother and father, respectively. Both actors do fine jobs of portraying the parents of a girl stuck between losing control and finding acceptance. Becker makes a seemingly flaky character worthy of attention and breaks hearts with her somber gaze. Milberg makes a man we should dislike, charismatic and real. Their performances are subtle and significant, an excellent mix.
The remaining cast members come together nicely to create an atmosphere which humanizes a girl who gets off on wiping down public toilet seats with her vulva. Yes, you read that correctly and yes it’s an actual scene in the movie. Don’t worry though, all that goes down before the opening credits even roll. Like I said, baptism by fire.
David Wnendt (Director) has a unique approach to storytelling that compliments Helen’s tale well. His fast-paced approach and surreal visuals make this movie fun to look at as well as watch. I suppose the only real problem I had with Wetlands is how quickly the story is resolved in the end. This neat and tidy ending contrasts too sharply with who the main character is. I’d say more, but I don’t want to spoil the fun for you.
