The Wall

Year: 2012
Genre: Fantasy drama
Director: Julian Polsler


Plot: A woman visiting the countryside suddenly finds herself trapped behind an invisible wall that covers the area surrounding her lodge. She attempts to carry on with her life disconnected from the outside world with only a dog, a cat and a cow for company.


The gist: Based on the novel by Marlen Haushofer, The Wall is similar to Robinson Crusoe in telling a story on solitude, in this case a woman trapped behind an invisible wall that inexplicably appears, and appears to be impenetrable.

The woman narrates her time spent surviving within the confines of the wall while tending to her animals who keep her company. It is only by keeping herself active that she saves herself from going insane.


The good: Cinematography of the countryside is well done. Lead star Martina Gedeck does a splendid job as the woman, who reacts to her surroundings the same way we would. Her drive to carry on and live despite her impossible situation is inspirational, if not always engaging.

The bad: This isn't exactly a story about unraveling a mystery, so the explanation behind the wall's existence is not given. The film also lacks a proper ending, with a sudden incident towards the end being both a little late and somewhat inconsistent.


Verdict: It's a picture with a slow pace that doesn't quite give a proper payoff. The potential is there but not utilised. Just a decent film overall. (6/10)