Prepare to be transported to a unique blend of punk-infused time travel as “LOLA,” the 2022 Irish-British found footage science fiction film, takes you on an exhilarating ride through past, present, and future. Directed by the talented Andrew Legge in his feature directorial debut, the film stars Emma Appleton as Thomasina “Thom” Hanbury and Stefanie Martini as Martha “Mars” Hanbury. The dynamic duo’s performances are nothing short of remarkable, breathing life into the characters and the film’s fascinating plot.
Set in England during the height of World War II in 1941, “LOLA” follows the extraordinary journey of the Hanbury sisters, Thomasina and Martha. These ingenious sisters have crafted a remarkable machine capable of intercepting broadcasts from the future. Through this ingenious invention, they embark on a thrilling adventure, experiencing the punk movement before it even exists, immersing themselves in the culture and spirit of a generation yet to come.
However, as the war intensifies, the sisters find themselves facing a crucial decision. They must choose between using their incredible machine for personal delight or wielding it as a weapon of intelligence to alter the course of history. The consequences of their choice will be nothing short of world-altering, sending ripples through time that could change the future forever.
The production of “LOLA” is as remarkable as the film’s premise. Shot entirely in Ireland during lockdown, the filmmakers employed vintage 16mm Bolex and Arriflex cameras with period lenses for the intimate scenes between the sisters in their home. For the newsreel segments, they opted for a 1930s Newman Sinclair 35mm wind-up camera on Kodak Double X film, truly capturing the essence of the era. Interestingly, Stefanie Martini, who plays Martha, operated the shots from her character’s perspective, showcasing her dedication to the role.
The film’s captivating soundtrack, masterfully composed by Neil Hannon of the Divine Comedy, further elevates the viewing experience. It features iconic tracks like David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” and a reimagined version of The Kinks’ “You Really Got Me,” which cleverly foreshadows the future impact of these cultural milestones. Additionally, the film incorporates original music by Elgar, adding depth and emotion to the already engaging narrative.
“LOLA” made its highly anticipated premiere at the Locarno Film Festival on August 5, 2022, garnering critical acclaim from audiences and critics alike. Review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes reports a perfect 100% approval score based on 21 reviews, hailing it as a clever and timeless masterpiece. IndieWire’s David Ehrlich commends Legge’s directorial prowess, noting how the film’s ingenious structure creates an unexpected emotional impact. Eye For Film’s Jennie Kermode praises the beautifully drawn characters and the film’s exploration of complex science fiction questions.
While some reviews, such as those from The Scotsman and Time Out, offer constructive criticism regarding historical accuracy and narrative depth, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive. The innovative use of archive footage, the talented performances, and the thought-provoking themes leave an indelible mark on viewers.
In conclusion, “LOLA” is a groundbreaking film that artfully fuses time-travel and found footage elements to deliver an unforgettable and clever narrative. With its unique blend of punk spirit, mesmerizing performances, and a gripping soundtrack, it’s a journey through time that will leave you questioning the power of human decisions and their far-reaching consequences. A must-see for any sci-fi enthusiast, “LOLA” secures its place as one of the most original and compelling films in recent memory.
