Eugène Green's latest film, "The Tree of Knowledge," has premiered at Fantastic Fest in Texas, following its earlier world premiere. This Franco-Portuguese co-production uses a fantastical narrative to explore Portuguese culture and offer a critique of mass tourism's impact on national identity.
The film centers on Gaspar, a teenager portrayed by Rui Pedro Silva, who becomes entangled with the sinister Ogre, played by Diogo Dória. Ogre's exploitative scheme involves luring tourists and transforming them into animals for his illicit activities, touching on themes of love, care, and the dangers of generalization. Green employs a distinctive theatrical style, with actors directly addressing the camera, blending the absurd with comedic elements. A scene featuring Queen Maria I serves as a metaphorical representation of Portugal's historical complexities.
"The Tree of Knowledge" is set to conclude the 23rd edition of the Doclisboa festival in October 2025, underscoring the growing international presence of Portuguese filmmaking. The film's participation in festivals like Fantastic Fest, which runs from September 18-25, 2025, and its closing role at Doclisboa (October 16-26, 2025) are crucial for its global exposure. The Portuguese film industry has seen significant growth, with previous acclaimed films like Miguel Gomes' "Tabu" and João Pedro Rodrigues' "The Ornithologist" gaining international recognition, showcasing the country's evolving cinematic landscape.
The film's thematic exploration of mass tourism resonates with current discussions about its effects on Portuguese culture and society. Studies indicate that mass tourism has led to significant price increases in cities like Lisbon, with a notable rise in Airbnb accommodations and the displacement of local residents. This phenomenon, while bringing economic benefits, also poses challenges to cultural authenticity and the daily lives of citizens, transforming urban spaces primarily for visitors. The film's allegorical approach, using fantasy to comment on these societal shifts, offers a unique perspective on the nation's contemporary challenges and its rich cultural heritage.
The Instituto do Cinema e do Audiovisual (ICA) is the Portuguese national public film agency, supporting the development of cinematographic and audiovisual activities through various financial support programs and international promotion initiatives. The Portuguese government, through the ICA, provides substantial support, fostering an environment where films like "The Tree of Knowledge" can emerge and gain international traction.