“Hot Spot” takes place in a near future society ruled by sentient AI, as a detective slowly enters a state of hypnotic meltdown while investigating a murder case.
It’s not often that this word comes to mind when a movie ends: unintelligible. Unfortunately, that’s the case for “Hot Spot.” With artificial intelligence in the synopsis, that’s clearly a point of discussion in the film, but it doesn’t really have anything to say about it. Nor does it have much of a story whatsoever.
“Hot Spot” has the concept. It has the production design. It has the lead actor. What it doesn’t have is a cohesive narrative. Robert Bolesto’s screenplay is a collection of scenes that, on their own, are interesting. When put together, they feel like a mishmash of… nonsense. With exploding heads, parasitic bio-bugs, telekinesis and more, there’s a lot going on. I can’t forget to mention that all of this surrounds a central AI system, called “The Head.” It’s a lot to take in, and because director Agnieszka Smoczyńska drops viewers right inside with no introduction, it never really makes a whole lot of sense.
Despite the obvious issues with the script, it’s hard to say that “Hot Spot” is boring. With so much absurdity also comes a constant barrage of shock value. In small bursts, Smoczyńska unleashes graphic violence that often feels like it doesn’t belong. Despite this, the brutality behind it fits inside a world that has lost its sense of autonomy. This is a place where “violators” are executed for all to see.
“Thank you for your attention to this matter. Have a nice day.”
While the messaging doesn’t come across clearly, “Hot Spot” does have some discernible themes. It showcases distinct class disparity, hive mind behavior and environmental desecration. What is there to actually take away? Honestly… I’m not entirely sure. But the foundation of these topics is at least in place.
Production designer Anna Anosowicz helps to craft a believable dystopian environment. Like most futuristic sci-fi concepts, it’s dry. Costume designer Katarzyna Lewinska has fun with the idea as well, injecting pieces of the past into the wardrobe. The combination of the setting and the attire creates a sense of nostalgia amid the almost post-apocalyptic-like world.
Director of photography Jakub Kijowski complements this with a variety of shooting techniques. With large portions of the film revolving around simple stares, he finds ways to add movement to the stillness. Using slow zoom-ins or wide-angle shots, Kijowski captures both the desolate nature of the environment and the complex nature of the characters. When CGI is incorporated, realism remains despite the realm of verity being stretched beyond belief. Combined with the glitch-like visuals is also distorted sound design. There are static noises integrated into the mix that generate unease. Whenever warped sounds start to appear, the intensity instantly rises.
Andrzej Konopka (Djonny) stars. It’s an eccentric role, with big hoop earrings and skin-tight outfits. All the while, Konopka doesn’t ever say a whole lot, with much of his emotions conveyed through facial expressions or sounds. Also appearing are Noomi Rapace (Rana), Reika Kirishima (Ayka) and George Aurimas Cris (Zen).
“Hot Spot” is a stunning portrait of purposelessness. Taking place in a world of so many possibilities, it ultimately passes over all of them in silence.
Rating: 2 out of 5
