The International Sign for Choking

Watch The International Sign for Choking

  • NR
  • 2011
  • 1 hr 19 min
  • 5.6  (40)

The International Sign for Choking is a contemplative indie film that was released in 2011. It was directed by filmmaker Zach Weintraub, who also starred in the lead role. The movie features an amateurish quality that adds to its charm, shot with a handheld camera, and focusing more on atmosphere and interactions between characters instead of plot.

The story follows Eli (Zach Weintraub), a gifted young man who travels to Panama to work on a research project. He is teamed up with Anya (Sophia Takal), a fellow researcher, and the two are tasked with studying local flora and fauna. In Panama, Eli becomes enamored with the natural world and begins to use his camera as a way to capture the beauty he sees around him.

As the days go by, however, Eli begins to feel increasingly isolated and disconnected from the world around him. He has a hard time communicating with the locals due to his limited Spanish, and he struggles to connect with Anya, who seems more interested in partying than in their research project. Eli's sense of detachment only grows when he discovers a mysterious object in the woods, which seems to hold a deep significance for the indigenous people.

Throughout the film, the characters engage in lengthy conversations about the nature of reality, the importance of human connection, and the struggles of finding our place in the world. For example, Eli and Anya discuss the metaphorical implications of choking, and how it can symbolize the feeling of being trapped in a situation. They ponder about how choking can represent the struggle to articulate what one feels or believes, or about the fear of opening up to others.

The International Sign for Choking is a slow-paced movie that may not be for everyone. It relies heavily on dialogue, and there is little action in the film. However, for those who appreciate a more introspective approach to filmmaking, the movie provides a thought-provoking exploration of several universal themes.

The acting in the movie is strong, particularly by Zach Weintraub and Sophia Takal, who bring a naturalistic and raw quality to their performances. The movie's minimalistic approach to storytelling means that the actors have to rely heavily on their delivery and body language, and they do so effectively.

Another highlight of the movie is its beautiful cinematography. The lush, green landscapes of Panama provide a stunning backdrop for the story, and the usage of a handheld camera gives a documentary-like feel to the film. Moreover, the movie's experimental approach to sound design helps to create a vaguely surreal atmosphere that underscores the themes of the story.

All in all, The International Sign for Choking is not a perfect movie. Its lack of plot might make it difficult for some viewers to engage with, and its minimalist approach to storytelling might feel like a mistake to others. However, for those willing to go along with its unusual pace, the movie provides a thought-provoking meditation on the human experience, the power of nature, and the struggles of communication in a globalized world.

The International Sign for Choking
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Description
  • Release Date
    2011
  • MPAA Rating
    NR
  • Runtime
    1 hr 19 min
  • IMDB Rating
    5.6  (40)