Small World is a disturbing but realistic portrayal of a film on the subject of child sex trafficking. A girl is abducted in Poland and taken to Russia as a cop relentlessly pursues the kidnappers. From Poland and Russia to Britain and Thailand, the underworld of these slime bags is universal. The acting is excellent, and the story a riveting one. Not a pleasant movie, but a necessary one.
17 Reviews
Small and big
kosmasp17 August 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I don't know where to start (and that pun aside I used in the summary headline) - the movie is tough. It is not just the subject matter - it is how it is depicted. What we get to see ... I sometimes write this is not for the easily offended and for the faint of hearted ... this is beyond any warning I can give you! The movie is really showing things that are more than tough to watch ... this would be an understatement.
So anything involving kids is ... well tough. And I am a bit surprised they go as far as showing certain things. It never is explicit (that line never gets crossed thankfully), but it still is more than enough to make people sick just watching. No pun intended.
Those already "sick" will not get anything out of the movie ... those who hate the people doing stuff like that ... might get some form of absolution.
And this is where I will go or dive into the story. Because child abuse ... it's one thing. But the way it is solved in the end ... rampage, the mayhem and the bloodshed it culminates in ... it is freeing to a degree I reckon ... but I am not sure this will be enough for those who have issues from the start. And again I fully understand to say the least.
Decide how much you can stomache, though I reckon you already have seen at least parts of the movie ... and continue or let it be. Both valid choices, based on how much you can take.
So anything involving kids is ... well tough. And I am a bit surprised they go as far as showing certain things. It never is explicit (that line never gets crossed thankfully), but it still is more than enough to make people sick just watching. No pun intended.
Those already "sick" will not get anything out of the movie ... those who hate the people doing stuff like that ... might get some form of absolution.
And this is where I will go or dive into the story. Because child abuse ... it's one thing. But the way it is solved in the end ... rampage, the mayhem and the bloodshed it culminates in ... it is freeing to a degree I reckon ... but I am not sure this will be enough for those who have issues from the start. And again I fully understand to say the least.
Decide how much you can stomache, though I reckon you already have seen at least parts of the movie ... and continue or let it be. Both valid choices, based on how much you can take.
To all VEGA haters... especially those in POLAND.
tgchan9 July 2023
I've seen a few films... Just a few ;)
Vega's film slap differently... I am Polish so most of the time they feel too real to me... they hit too close to home, etc.. They actually disgust me because if the world indeed looks like this than I do not want to have anything to do with it.
I have seen all PITBULLs and other crime thrillers from VEGA. They are all amazingly well done with a few wtf moments... Some of them are plain stupid, some of them are so cringy that just wtf...
One thing is certain. He has a strong style. A unique one and his movies are his own and they are really really good. What I have watched in the recent years from "the Hollywood" is just garbage in comparison...
A cheap thrill often made even cheaper. I would have never thought that Polish films can have better stories, better special effects, etc/
They are far from perfect but still better than most that comes out from the USA in cinemas.
There's a Polish saying:
'Cudze chwalicie, Swego nie znacie, Sami nie wiecie, Co posiadacie.' - Stanislaw Jachowicz
and it is so true... Vega and a few other factors have made me look into that quote even deeper...
As for this particular film... Heavy as f... It actually made me decide that I will not watch more movies from VEGA even though I enjoy them a lot. I have some problems with depression and all dark/heavy stuff like this just puts me into a bad mindspace...
I need rainbows, singing unicorns flying over the blue sky with billowy snowy white clouds on it... not a criminal, thriller, drama about little children being sold and abused all over the world... BUT... if he is not afraid to show what's ugly to the world...
This alone should be prised and talked about... He is brutally honest and is not shy to put it/show in his movies...
Some of the scenes are more hardcore than those from Lars von Trier or Alejandro G. Iñárritu. Think along those lines when you think about VEGA's films because this is his style and he is bloody good at it.
I wish him all the success because he deserves it. I also recommend all his thriller/drama,criminal films. I haven't seen all of his movies and some might be as bad as people say... I've got a hint or two from the ones I have really enjoyed so... I can only imagine the wtf/cringiness amount he might have put if he did not filled a film with what he is good at/
Hopefully he will grow and his films will reach wider crowds all over the world. Thank you. /tgchan. Com.
Vega's film slap differently... I am Polish so most of the time they feel too real to me... they hit too close to home, etc.. They actually disgust me because if the world indeed looks like this than I do not want to have anything to do with it.
I have seen all PITBULLs and other crime thrillers from VEGA. They are all amazingly well done with a few wtf moments... Some of them are plain stupid, some of them are so cringy that just wtf...
One thing is certain. He has a strong style. A unique one and his movies are his own and they are really really good. What I have watched in the recent years from "the Hollywood" is just garbage in comparison...
A cheap thrill often made even cheaper. I would have never thought that Polish films can have better stories, better special effects, etc/
They are far from perfect but still better than most that comes out from the USA in cinemas.
There's a Polish saying:
'Cudze chwalicie, Swego nie znacie, Sami nie wiecie, Co posiadacie.' - Stanislaw Jachowicz
and it is so true... Vega and a few other factors have made me look into that quote even deeper...
As for this particular film... Heavy as f... It actually made me decide that I will not watch more movies from VEGA even though I enjoy them a lot. I have some problems with depression and all dark/heavy stuff like this just puts me into a bad mindspace...
I need rainbows, singing unicorns flying over the blue sky with billowy snowy white clouds on it... not a criminal, thriller, drama about little children being sold and abused all over the world... BUT... if he is not afraid to show what's ugly to the world...
This alone should be prised and talked about... He is brutally honest and is not shy to put it/show in his movies...
Some of the scenes are more hardcore than those from Lars von Trier or Alejandro G. Iñárritu. Think along those lines when you think about VEGA's films because this is his style and he is bloody good at it.
I wish him all the success because he deserves it. I also recommend all his thriller/drama,criminal films. I haven't seen all of his movies and some might be as bad as people say... I've got a hint or two from the ones I have really enjoyed so... I can only imagine the wtf/cringiness amount he might have put if he did not filled a film with what he is good at/
Hopefully he will grow and his films will reach wider crowds all over the world. Thank you. /tgchan. Com.
A boring ride in a crazy rollercoaster
protazyboryna15 September 2021
Warning: Spoilers
It feels like three different movies accidently stitched together, each being weird in its own way. It might be almost likeable for its quirkiness if it wasn't so hard to sit through.
It begins with a fairly enticing criminal story about a kidnapping. It presents some uneasy characters and strong emotions that are not entirely unrelatable. The acting of a mother who is emotionally at 11 for hours may seem a bit over-the-top but you'll miss it with what's coming.
Next we follow a policeman tracking the ever-elusive kidnapped girl. Without going into details, a big part of the story is his self-destructive persistence. The only motivation we eventually get is the idea that.. he may be a pedophile himself. From a shrink, no less. This is after a scene where he gets exposed to an over-sexualized teen/child and gets confused. This motive seems very much like a cash-in on the Cuties "you may be a pedo" franchise and its immense press coverage. I'll just say it's not even trying to be graceful in any way here, or to make sense for that matter.
The second face of the movie is composed of adorably clunky punisher-esque scenes. If the beginning tried to be down-to-earth, now we're blown right to the outer space. These parts of the movie are like Alex's Jones fever dream depicting most rough-hewn satanic-pedophile cults you'll ever see.
The third face is what worn me out the most. A dramatic depiction of a seemingly high-life of a "special requests" prostitute in Thailand, taking a formidable chunk of the later parts of the movie. It seems like the director wanted to utilize the actor playing the partner of the prostitute (a role that was relatively not terrible), but had little idea how to do that gracefully. It stretched mercilessly, offering little exposure while presenting a character/relationship that may have been almost interesting to analyze, but underexposed and underdeveloped ultimately got dulled down in a mix with the punisher franchise during the culmination.
There's much more to say about the movie, but that should at least scratch the surface. Vega seems to attempt the high-low tension curve with some humor at times, but hardly masterfully. Up to a point, where I don't even know if he really attempts that.
Like there's a scene in the brothel after a "special request" service by the girl, where another customer walks in and asks to quickly slurp down the used condoms right there and then, since his family is waiting for him. W-what? Is that supposed to be a comedic relief or a dramatic depiction? In the end it just seems weird, just like the entire movie does.
It begins with a fairly enticing criminal story about a kidnapping. It presents some uneasy characters and strong emotions that are not entirely unrelatable. The acting of a mother who is emotionally at 11 for hours may seem a bit over-the-top but you'll miss it with what's coming.
Next we follow a policeman tracking the ever-elusive kidnapped girl. Without going into details, a big part of the story is his self-destructive persistence. The only motivation we eventually get is the idea that.. he may be a pedophile himself. From a shrink, no less. This is after a scene where he gets exposed to an over-sexualized teen/child and gets confused. This motive seems very much like a cash-in on the Cuties "you may be a pedo" franchise and its immense press coverage. I'll just say it's not even trying to be graceful in any way here, or to make sense for that matter.
The second face of the movie is composed of adorably clunky punisher-esque scenes. If the beginning tried to be down-to-earth, now we're blown right to the outer space. These parts of the movie are like Alex's Jones fever dream depicting most rough-hewn satanic-pedophile cults you'll ever see.
The third face is what worn me out the most. A dramatic depiction of a seemingly high-life of a "special requests" prostitute in Thailand, taking a formidable chunk of the later parts of the movie. It seems like the director wanted to utilize the actor playing the partner of the prostitute (a role that was relatively not terrible), but had little idea how to do that gracefully. It stretched mercilessly, offering little exposure while presenting a character/relationship that may have been almost interesting to analyze, but underexposed and underdeveloped ultimately got dulled down in a mix with the punisher franchise during the culmination.
There's much more to say about the movie, but that should at least scratch the surface. Vega seems to attempt the high-low tension curve with some humor at times, but hardly masterfully. Up to a point, where I don't even know if he really attempts that.
Like there's a scene in the brothel after a "special request" service by the girl, where another customer walks in and asks to quickly slurp down the used condoms right there and then, since his family is waiting for him. W-what? Is that supposed to be a comedic relief or a dramatic depiction? In the end it just seems weird, just like the entire movie does.
8/10 for the subject otherwise below average film
roberturbanski-7499629 December 2021
Personally I do not like Vegas movies, bigstar Hollywood wannabe director from Poland, with the audience of underage low life thugs. But in this one I guess he bed the curve a bit, going towards into a more mature subject. Still the movie is way below average but I got to give him points for the theme.
Wasted Potential
roger_towne11 January 2022
There was an opportunity here to weave the viewer through a sick twisted journey of pedophiles and the worst of humanity, but worn-out cliches, mouth-yawning action, unnecessary story sequences and painfully stupid character decisions bury this movie in the cemetary of forgotten films. Too bad, there were actually some worthy moments and glimpses of potential. But as usual, too many writers and filmmakers today can't look past the typical crap to create moving stories with interesting characters.
Great gritty and dark crime movie
Sonny_Neil17 January 2022
This is a pretty dark and realistic movie that depict sick and twisted individuals; this is about child trafficking, from beginning to end.
Needless to say; if you like dark and gritty stuff, this is for you.
Some parts could have been better and much more believable but, most of what they show and how they show it is pretty accurate and real; it happened, it's happening and will happen.
Really enjoyed it, KUDOS to the director, actors; the entire team working on this to have the balls to create a movie showing real stuff that is happening in the world (hopefully this will open some eyes) and most importantly; going full on.. because otherwise, what is the point if you don't?
Needless to say; if you like dark and gritty stuff, this is for you.
Some parts could have been better and much more believable but, most of what they show and how they show it is pretty accurate and real; it happened, it's happening and will happen.
Really enjoyed it, KUDOS to the director, actors; the entire team working on this to have the balls to create a movie showing real stuff that is happening in the world (hopefully this will open some eyes) and most importantly; going full on.. because otherwise, what is the point if you don't?
I highly do not recommend this movie to anyone
joannazontek19 September 2021
Disgusting, we went to cinema in group od 8. Nobody enjoyed watching this movie. I had to go outside cinema as I could not watched it as I felt sick (I have seen a lot in my life but I am sorry it has been truly horrible and disgusting). Please do yourself favour and do not watch this crap.
Extremely dark and repressing, good though
Gabriel441610 January 2022
As far as I am concerned Poland produces the best crime dramas among all the former socialist countries. They produce very dark and cruel stories which are never for the faint hearted. Their trick: they tend to not get detached from reality much.
So this movie is no exception. Nobody who expects some light entertainment, adventure and easy satisfection should go anywhere near it as the viewer will have to endure scenes matching those one would see in the toughest psycho thrillers and horror flicks.
But for those who like the realistic hardcore stuff, this movie will absolutely work.
So this movie is no exception. Nobody who expects some light entertainment, adventure and easy satisfection should go anywhere near it as the viewer will have to endure scenes matching those one would see in the toughest psycho thrillers and horror flicks.
But for those who like the realistic hardcore stuff, this movie will absolutely work.
Started off well, then drove into a Brick Wall
GoldenGooner045 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Why on God's Green Earth did they switch it to England and Rotherham I mean where did they dig out that name from, wonderful Google Maps maybe
The So called "English" actors would fail a audition for Eastenders they are that bad
When it was in Poland and Russia it was interesting, decent acting decent storyline.
Then we switched to Wonderful Rotherham and it really jumped the shark.
I mean now we have Devil Worshippers and the cop dressed up like 007 They have taken a Very Serious Subject and turned it into a Comedy, the company who made this should be ashamed of themselves.
I wonder if the people of Rotherham know about this film Now all cops who chase these sick C@@TS are sick themselves?
WTF am I watching here.
Then we switched to Wonderful Rotherham and it really jumped the shark.
I mean now we have Devil Worshippers and the cop dressed up like 007 They have taken a Very Serious Subject and turned it into a Comedy, the company who made this should be ashamed of themselves.
I wonder if the people of Rotherham know about this film Now all cops who chase these sick C@@TS are sick themselves?
WTF am I watching here.
Entertaining, but garbage..
mmarusinski15 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
The movie starts alright, the Polish part ain't that bad, neither is Russian one..
But when it gets to UK it's just so so bad, British characters are played by Spanish and other foreigners that don't sound British at all..
Jasmine or whatever she is called is one of the worst roles in this film, but so is pretty much all the acting in this film.
The Satanic cult is another joke and one of the worst cliches in movies, it's more of a Catholic Church domain to abuse children.
I believe this is one of the worst movies by Patryk Vega, I guess he is running out of controversies to film.
But when it gets to UK it's just so so bad, British characters are played by Spanish and other foreigners that don't sound British at all..
Jasmine or whatever she is called is one of the worst roles in this film, but so is pretty much all the acting in this film.
The Satanic cult is another joke and one of the worst cliches in movies, it's more of a Catholic Church domain to abuse children.
I believe this is one of the worst movies by Patryk Vega, I guess he is running out of controversies to film.
Polish Crime Thriller by Patryk VEGA
ZeddaZogenau16 March 2024
Polish cinema is daring and has no regard for losses. Director Patryk VEGA in particular goes very far in terms of sex and violence in his films. First of all, this has to be very respected, but it can quickly become too hype-like and become an end in itself. Almost as a provocation for the sake of provocation!
This film about the internationally networked child slave trade has some very violent and extremely unpleasant scenes, the exploitation of which can certainly be criticized. Thematically and dramatically, the film also takes its role models from "The Promise / It Happened in Broad Daylight" based on the crime novel by the Swiss writer Friedrich DÜRRENMATT and the similar crime film "Abschaum" from the German crime film series TATORT from 2004. Patryk VEGA just goes a few steps further, always to where it is particularly painful. The man is not afraid of rumors! I would like to see a little more of this in German cinemas too!
The film sold more than 400,000 tickets in Polish cinemas. However, only those who are seriously interested in the topic and can endure a lot should watch streaming.
This film about the internationally networked child slave trade has some very violent and extremely unpleasant scenes, the exploitation of which can certainly be criticized. Thematically and dramatically, the film also takes its role models from "The Promise / It Happened in Broad Daylight" based on the crime novel by the Swiss writer Friedrich DÜRRENMATT and the similar crime film "Abschaum" from the German crime film series TATORT from 2004. Patryk VEGA just goes a few steps further, always to where it is particularly painful. The man is not afraid of rumors! I would like to see a little more of this in German cinemas too!
The film sold more than 400,000 tickets in Polish cinemas. However, only those who are seriously interested in the topic and can endure a lot should watch streaming.
Disturbing but very good Thriller
derdon160714 June 2022
It is a good thriller that takes a look behind the scenes of the perfect world. The depictions in this film can be disturbing. Survivors of MK-Ultra and satanic rituals and abuse victims in general should not watch the film. Great Job Mr. Vega.
A cruel world that corrupts everyone...
morlantdk25 August 2022
A dark odyssey bout the traffic of people and even worse, children. An international network of a cancer affecting the world takes as prey a Polish girl and sends a policeman through a long trek of recovery all over the world.
Sometimes it reminds the topic of THE OFFENCE (Dir.: Sideny Lumet, 1974). Worth a view if you have the stomach for it.
Sometimes it reminds the topic of THE OFFENCE (Dir.: Sideny Lumet, 1974). Worth a view if you have the stomach for it.
Oscar Worthy
STOP_ShakyCAM30 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Did not expect such an amazing movie. It is very dark, brutal, scary, thrilling, entertaining and shows how disgusting this World can be. Amazing acting, directing, camera and all together very entertaining. The cops ending was a bit predictable, but it is still good.
Gripping crime drama
lilpest910 June 2022
Warning: Spoilers
A policeman's spiral as a case consumes his life. Has some disorienting editing and odd direction but is mostly fine. The Thai segment is kind of weird. Hoe doesn't shack up with a guy and keep hoeing, least not for money. She has man now to give her money.
Most of the violence is so sudden to nearly feel comical.
Most of the violence is so sudden to nearly feel comical.
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