Ed suggests a stark comparison: “People are roses. Families are rosebushes. Rosebushes need pruning.” This metaphor sets the stage for Rosebush Pruning, the latest film by Brazilian director Karim Aïnouz.
The story revolves around a wealthy and troubled family. Anna and Robert, the younger siblings, are deeply dysfunctional, while their father, played by Tracey Letts, is a blind, abusive figure. Eldest brother Jack appears more stable, but he hides his own trauma. The family enjoys their lavish lifestyle in a Spanish villa, yet discussions about designer clothes and sniping at each other reveal underlying chaos. When Jack decides to move in with his girlfriend, tensions rise, and long-buried secrets about their mother’s death begin to surface.
This film draws inspiration from Marco Bellocchio’s 1965 classic Fists in the Pocket. It critiques the lives of the ultra-wealthy and their hidden dysfunctions. Aïnouz hopes that his satire will challenge the status quo and provoke thought.
In a recent interview, Aïnouz shared how the pandemic inspired the film’s development. He wanted to create a story focused on a privileged family, exploring themes of masculinity and power dynamics. He candidly reflected on his choice to shift from female protagonists to male characters, aiming to decode toxic masculinity.
Aïnouz’s collaboration with screenwriter Efthimis Filippou paved the way for a unique blend of humor and serious commentary. He emphasized the importance of laughter as a tool to navigate complex topics like privilege. Observing societal absurdities, he aimed to portray wealth disparity in a new light.
Many films have critiqued the wealthy, but Aïnouz sought to insert humor and hope into his narrative. His approach stands out amidst recent hits like Parasite and The White Lotus, spotlighting both the absurdity and consequences of wealth.
The oppressive father figure mirrors real-life figures often found in headlines. Aïnouz’s intention was to dissect these patriarchs, revealing their influence in today’s world. He presented a layered critique of wealth and power with a touch of dark humor.
The film features a standout cast, including Letts, Jamie Bell, Elle Fanning, and Pamela Anderson. Aïnouz wanted actors who would invest time together, creating a genuine family dynamic. He appreciated each actor’s unique talents, ensuring they could breathe life into their roles.
Filming took place entirely in Spain, allowing the cast to rehearse extensively in character. This method fostered authenticity, enabling them to develop the characters organically.
Aïnouz feels a resurgence of bold, experimental cinema akin to the revolutionary films of the 1960s. He expressed a desire to break from conventional storytelling, emphasizing the transformative potential of creative risk-taking.
Ultimately, Rosebush Pruning reflects a blend of cultural influences. With a diverse team behind the project, Aïnouz aims to ignite conversations about privilege, masculinity, and the need for change. In a world of increasing wealth disparities, the message feels urgent and necessary.
To learn more about the issues of wealth and privilege in contemporary cinema, you can read this report from The Pew Research Center on economic disparities.
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berlin,Berlin Film Festival,Berlinale 2026,Callum Turner,Elle Fanning,international,Jamie Bell,Pamela Anderson,Riley Keough
