Hundreds of Beavers

Throughout Hundreds of Beavers, Cheslik found ways to depict 19th-century trapping in a way that won’t alienate or gross out a modern audience. He has all the animals portrayed by full-grown adults wearing mascot costumes. This a genius move that works to the hilt. Even when the carcasses are butchered, all the internal organs are stuffed. There is also the wise use of video game elements to minimize the carnage and trauma. The director understands the natural reaction for many to root for the animals and rewards that, increasing the stakes for our hero along the way.

Yes, I am telling you to watch a nearly two-hour movie with essentially no dialogue, shot in black-and-white. Just know that I was as skeptical as you are that this would be entertaining, much less gloriously so. I kept waiting for the balls Cheslik was juggling to drop. But they never do. Even at the 80-minute mark, I was bewildered as to why the movie wasn’t ending in a conspicuous spot in an obvious way. That is because obvious takes a holiday in the epic third act, where the concept spirals higher and higher in outlandish ways that will ignite the audience. What is fiendishly impressive is that the aforementioned video game influence steers the majestic finale.

“…marvelous…stunning.”

The cinematography, by Quinn Hester, is marvelous. Anyone ever wondering why someone would watch something in black and white needs to see this film. The contrast of the snow, woods, and animal suits is stunning. This would not have worked in color, as that would have diluted the visual impact. The production quality is so high here I thought it was a Canadian production with government funding. I was floored when I found out it was made in Wisconsin by rubbing dimes vigorously together. 

Hundreds of Beavers is further proof that Wisconsin produces the strangest independent movies in the country. Cheslik has created an unexpected visionary work that will rip you a new perspective on classic cinematic art. It is exciting in ways you cannot imagine and must be seen to be believed.

Hundreds of Beavers screened at the 2023 Cinequest Film Festival.