Universal Language: A Cinematic Oddity & An Ode To Unconventional Filmmaking

Universal Language is described as a magical Canadian comedy, but it’s more aptly a cinematic oddity which utilises deadpan, dry humour to highlight the ridiculousness and absurdity of the subject matter.

Set in the surrounds of Winnipeg Canada, there are three stories in the narrative which ultimately intertwine in the finale; two girls find frozen money in the ice, a man guides unenthusiastic tourists through the forgettable architectural sites of Winnipeg, and a man quits his job in search of his mother.

From the hysterical opening sequence where a teacher is using non-conventional teaching methods in his French class to address and discipline his students, audiences should quickly realise that they’re in for 90 minutes of the most outrageously over the top viewing they’ve ever experienced cinematically.

Unique oddball story telling techniques overloaded with dry humour and silly dialogue which are deliberately delivered with a lack of expression and emotion are  reminiscent of classic films such as Flying High and The Naked Gun.

It’s initially perplexing as to what’s unfolding on the big screen, but audiences should quickly warm to this humour and offbeat style of storytelling and may find it difficult to stop watching.

It’s not just what happens in the foreground that’s bizarre, but also the peculiarities and recurring staging of people doing strange and at times nonsensical actions in the background.

As the silliness and at times non-sensical elements of the narrative accelerate audiences may be scratching their heads and asking, “What the hell am I watching?”

Compounding to the anomaly and quirkiness of the narrative are the inventive camera angles director Matthew Rankin experiments with which complement the production.

Amongst the decisively ludicrous elements of the story, are some underlying poignant and meaningful scenes which establish several significant and relatable themes that audiences should embrace.

Universal Language is the style of film which has proved a hit at film festivals around the globe including the Cannes Film Festival and Melbourne International Film Festival, having collected over 20 awards. This film was also shortlisted at the Oscars for the Best International Feature Film.

As unique and surprisingly enjoyable as this movie may be, ultimately, it’s not for mainstream viewing and should perform best in arthouse cinemas in very limited release.

Universal Language

***1/2

In Cinemas May 22