Watch Buoyancy

Buoyancy is a 2019 Australian independent film directed by Rodd Rathjen. The movie premiered in the Panorama section of the Berlin International Film Festival and was subsequently screened at numerous other festivals, including Sydney and Melbourne Film Festivals, where it received critical acclaim and positive reviews. The film stars Sarm Heng, Chan Visal, and Chheung Vakhim in the lead roles.

Buoyancy showcases the life of a 14-year-old Cambodian boy named Chakra, who lives with his family in a rural village. He works with his family in the fields, but like other boys of his age, he dreams of earning quick money and escaping the poverty and drudgery of his village life. One day he comes across an escape plan when he meets a recruiter and agrees to pay the man to smuggle him from Cambodia to work on a Thai fishing boat. However, he is soon confronted by the brutal reality of slavery and finds himself a captive on a fishing vessel, along with other young men who are subjected to horrendous living conditions, forced labor, and abuse by their harsh Thai captain. The only thing that can help Chakra is his strength and his deep determination to survive and escape from the hellish world he has been forced into.

The film makes a scathing commentary on human trafficking, modern slavery and the ruthless exploitation of the vulnerable, particularly in the fishing industry. The movie's narrative is based on real-life accounts of the deplorable conditions, illegal labor practices, and human rights violations in the sea-fishing industry of Southeast Asia where thousands of men and boys are forced to work against their will or by deception.

Sarm Heng, who portrays Chakra in the movie, delivers a stunning performance as the protagonist. He is expressive and emotive, displaying a sense of urgency and desperation that is palpable throughout the movie. In contrast, Chan Visal and Chheung Vakhim, other two protagonists, playing as the Thai captain and Chakra's fellow slave, while primarily silent, deliver equally impressive performances in their respective roles.

The film's cinematography is another highlight, delivered by cinematographer Michael Latham who beautifully captures the vast, open ocean as well as the small, cramped boat where the young men are confined to. The use of natural light and soft colors creates a foreboding and haunting atmosphere, which is in direct contrast to the vibrant landscapes of the Cambodian village.

The movie's direction is commendable, especially considering that this is Rathjen's directorial debut. The young filmmaker displays great skills and resolve to tell the story with visual flair and thematic depth that ensures this movies stays with the viewers for a long period after its conclusion. The sincerity of the film is evident throughout, and this sincerity coupled with the intense storyline is what makes Buoyancy such an emotionally impactful movie.

In conclusion, Buoyancy is a thought-provoking movie that delves into the human cost of the fishing industry in Southeast Asia, highlighting some of the worst aspects of human trafficking and modern slavery. Directed with skill and conviction, the film features impressive performances by the cast while capturing stunning visuals that add depth and meaning to the story. This movie is a must-watch, and is sure to leave the viewers with a range of emotions, from despair to hope.

Buoyancy is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 77.