Waiting for the Barbarians (2019)
Waiting for the Barbarians (2019) is a drama set in a distant, unnamed empire and based on the novel by J.M. Coetzee.
The story follows a Magistrate (Mark Rylance) who governs a small frontier settlement in peace until Colonel Joll (Johnny Depp) arrives to investigate rumors of an impending attack by “barbarians.” Colonel Joll’s brutal interrogation methods and harsh treatment of indigenous people disturb the Magistrate, leading him to question the morality of his empire’s actions.
As tensions escalate, the Magistrate becomes increasingly sympathetic to the “barbarians” and begins to challenge the empire’s oppressive practices. His growing defiance leads to his own persecution, and he faces a moral and personal crisis that tests his humanity and integrity.
The film explores themes of colonialism, authority, and the dehumanizing effects of fear and power.
