-Written by Kyle Bain.
When a young woman discovers deepfake videos of herself online, she sets out on a journey toward discovering the person behind these heinous acts. Along the way, she will find that other women are being targeted as well, and that the world in which she lives is becoming increasingly more dangerous. Another Body is a documentary that traverses a world that is constantly changing, becoming more advanced–and sometimes the results of these advancements aren’t good.
The mystery present in Another Body is its main source of intrigue–easily captivating the audience from the opening seconds. Rather than Writer-Directors Sophie Compton and Reuben Hamlyn simply presenting this film as just another documentary, they frame it more as a mystery narrative surrounding its main character. Framing it in such a way allows viewers to look past the sometimes negative stigma surrounding documentaries regarding them being boring and unengaging. Another Body starts off strong, immediately giving viewers a reason to care and remain interested in the content of the film.
This somehow felt like an immersive experience; I attest that to the use of deepfake content to help keep the anonymity of those involved in Another Body. It was almost like a game attempting to notice any slip-ups or minor mistakes that would have simply given away the fact that the film’s protagonist isn’t really who she appears to be. She tells us directly in the early going, expressing to the world exactly what will transpire before them–but I was looking for tells that would solidify these notions in my mind. With the exception of some minor slip-ups (which I attribute to the sophistication of the software and not the ability of those involved in the production of Another Body), this film’s use of technology is impeccable.
There’s something to be said about the attention to detail present in this film. Sure, it’s important that those involved remain anonymous, but it becomes increasingly clear that the team behind this film is so passionate about it–and the love that someone has for their film can make or break it. In the case of Another Body (not that it was anywhere near failure), the fact that this team is so passionate about their film makes it even better. They get the best out of themselves, and the film thrives as a result.
Now, as you may know by now, I don’t believe that any film is perfect–and I feel that there is one major flaw present in Another Body. While there is no dialogue, per se, some of the things expressed to viewers are questionable. I’m not questioning the facts or figures, and I, in no way, intend for it to sound that way. However, the fact of the matter is that the finger was pointed at men throughout the entirety of Another Body. Regardless of the facts, as a male watching this film, there was a feeling of ostracization that came over me from time to time. It’s important to call out those responsible for these heinous crimes, but a mention every now and again (or even just once) about another demographic would shift the tone ever so slightly, allowing those male viewers to know that they aren’t being targeted.
Words matter, and I subscribe to the idea that every word should, and often does (intentionally or not) have a profound effect on films, books, etc. That is Another Body’s one hindrance. Other than that, however, I felt that this film does a spectacular job of shedding light on a lesser-known topic, of presenting it in a way that allows it to remain interesting throughout, and using the talked-about technology to the best of its ability. Another Body is a well-put-together documentary that tells a relevant and important story.
Directed by Sophie Compton & Reuben Hamlyn.
Written by Sophie Compton, Isabel Freeman, & Reuben Hamlyn.
Starring Jordyn Billiau, Ezra SAra Pelaez, Nadia Wilemski, Ajna Wysowski, etc.
8/10 = WORTH RENTING OR BUYING
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