Evolution (2021 film)

Evolution is a French science fiction horror film directed by Lucile Hadžihalilović. Released in 2021, it marks Hadžihalilović's return to feature filmmaking after a six-year hiatus following her 2015 film Évolution.

The film is a disturbing and atmospheric exploration of medical experimentation, childhood, and the female body, set on a remote, volcanic island inhabited solely by women and young boys. The boys are subjected to strange medical treatments and procedures, ostensibly for an illness.

The plot revolves around Nicolas, a young boy who begins to question the treatments and the true nature of his existence. He slowly uncovers unsettling secrets about the women and their intentions, leading him to a growing sense of dread and a desire to escape the island.

Evolution is characterized by its surreal imagery, slow pacing, and unsettling atmosphere, creating a sense of unease and mystery. It is known for its ambiguous narrative and its exploration of themes related to control, reproduction, and the manipulation of nature. The film received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its visual style, atmosphere, and Hadžihalilović's direction.