Quartile rating: 7/10 · 1 rating
In the prehistoric past, Keda, a young and inexperienced hunter, struggles to return home after being separated from his tribe when bison hunting goes awry. On his way back he will find an unexpected ally.
Alpha is a visually stunning prehistoric survival film that earns its highest marks for cinematography — the sweeping Ice Age landscapes, striking wide shots, and immersive natural vistas are genuinely exceptional. The premise of humanity's first bond with a wolf is inherently interesting and given a respectful, earnest treatment, lending the film decent novelty within the survival-adventure genre. The plot is straightforward and functional but emotionally engaging enough, hitting familiar beats of isolation, perseverance, and unlikely companionship without much subversion. Acting is the weakest link — performances are adequate but not distinctive, hampered somewhat by the invented proto-language and limited dramatic range required. The ending is satisfying and emotionally resonant without being remarkable, closing the loop on the boy-and-dog origin story in a crowd-pleasing but predictable way.