Watch The Last Neandertal

The Last Neandertal is a French-Canadian historical drama film written and directed by Jacques Malaterre. The movie takes us on a journey back in time to 40,000 BC and introduces us to a Neandertal man named Taar, played by Simon Paul Sutton, who is the last member of his tribe. He spends his days hunting and gathering, as he tries to survive in the hostile landscape of the Late Pleistocene era.

The movie is set in the Vézère Valley, in what is now southern France, at a time when Homo sapiens were spreading across Europe and Asia. Taar's world is about to collide with theirs, and the clash between the two species is one of the central themes of the movie. The arrival of humans poses a threat to Taar's way of life, as well as his very existence, since they see him as a primitive and inferior creature.

The Last Neandertal is not a typical Hollywood blockbuster, as it focuses more on the emotional journey of its protagonist than on action and spectacle. The film has a contemplative pace, allowing the viewer to immerse oneself in the Neandertal's world and to feel connected to Taar's struggles. It is a meditative film that explores the humanity of a Neandertal man, his sense of loss and loneliness, and his search for meaning and purpose.

The cinematography of the movie is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the Vézère Valley's stunning landscapes. The use of natural light and the absence of any special effects make the film even more immersive and realistic. The dialogue is sparse, with most of the communication between Taar and his companions happening through gestures and grunts. The lack of spoken language contributes to the sense of isolation that the Neandertal feels, but also helps the audience to better understand the emotional nuances of the characters.

The Last Neandertal is a story of survival, loss, and change, as well as an exploration of what it means to be human. The film captures the essence of the Neandertal people's way of life, showing their ingenuity, their adaptability, and their reverence for nature. The movie is a tribute to a lost world and a lost people, and it is also an invitation to reflect on our own humanity and our place in the world.

Overall, The Last Neandertal is a beautifully crafted film that is both poignant and thought-provoking. It transports the viewer to a different time and place, offering a glimpse into the lives of our ancient ancestors and emotions that they may have had. It is a film that will stay with the viewer long after the credits roll, leaving them with a sense of awe and wonder at the mysteries of the human experience that are yet to be uncovered.