Transfer

The new world of bio-medical life extension is explored in director Damir Lukaecevic’s new film, Transfer. Here, customers with the financial means can extend their lives by transferring their mind into the bodies of fit young people. An idea that would seem radical is brought to life by a creative and unique screenplay that is smart and sensible.

Let me first say that Transfer is a foreign film; the languages are for the most part a mixture between French and German. While the foreign film label may discourage people from seeing this movie, I can say that the languages add to the film.

The film begins with a consultation session for potential clients Herman and Anna (Hans Michael Rehberg and Ingrid Andree), a prestigious German couple entering their golden years. While both have ethical concerns about the procedure, Herman is deeply worried by his wife’s failing health and both fear the day that death will separate them. Anna’s ailing health pushes the couple to move forward with the operation. She and Herman soon return to Menzana and commit to purchasing the bodies of Apolain and Sarah (B.J. Britt and Regine Nehy), two refugees from Africa who have been specially selected for their compatibility with the body and brain chemistry of the aging couple. Under the conditions of the transfer, Herman and Anna have use of their new bodies for 20 hours a day. When they sleep, their hosts Apolain and Sarah return to consciousness and are able to use their own bodies for a period of four hours.  Sounds interesting, right?

The movie brings back a missing element from Sci-Fi’s past. The love story presented is central to all the main characters, and this unusual touch is a nice change from today’s alien killing and gut-busting stories. While the plot has a mostly serious tone, there is some clever comedic relief tied into the dialogue. What also helps the story flow is the choice, by Anna and Herman, to go with African-American hosts. This gives the story more of a real feel because you see how the two are treated differently by their friends.

Overall, Transfer makes for a good film to see at a film festival. The idea is new, fresh and interesting. If you’re an advocate of foreign, sci-fi films then this is one you should check out.