Fenced In (2022) on Netflix: cast, plot and why the premise never pays off

The opening shot of Fenced In is a close-up of Leandro Hassum‘s Walter, sweat beads forming on his forehead as he grips the steering wheel, his knuckles white. It’s an image that promises tension, a man on the edge seeking solace. But what follows is a comedy that squanders its premise faster than Walter squanders his sanity.

Directed by Roberto Santucci, Fenced In is a Brazilian comedy about Walter (Hassum), a man who trades the city for the countryside after a nervous breakdown, only to find chaos in the form of his loud, eccentric neighbors. The film’s setup is ripe with potential—think Neighbors meets Little Miss Sunshine, but with a Brazilian twist. However, the execution falls flat more often than it soars.

Where Fenced In finds its footing is in Hassum’s performance. He brings a weary authenticity to Walter, a man desperate for peace but constantly derailed by the absurdity around him. Hassum’s physical comedy is particularly effective, from his exasperated facial expressions to his frantic attempts to escape the noise of his neighbors. The film’s best moments come from the dynamic between Walter and his neighbors, particularly Maurício Manfrini as Toninho da Vila. Their scenes together have a frenetic energy that occasionally lands laughs, like when Toninho’s impromptu backyard concert disrupts Walter’s attempt at meditation.

The comedy, however, is too often reliant on screeching high jinks rather than subtle wit. The film’s humor feels forced, as if it’s trying too hard to be outrageous. Scenes like Kelly (Marlei Cevada) and Camila (Julia Foti) bickering over a shared fence or Arthurzinho (Lucas Leto) and Pedroca (Yves Miguel) pulling pranks on Walter are meant to be hilarious but come off as grating. The soundtrack, while lively, often feels at odds with the tone of the film, underscoring moments that don’t need musical emphasis.

Structurally, Fenced In struggles to maintain momentum. The first act is promising, setting up Walter’s quest for tranquility and introducing his eccentric neighbors. But the middle act stumbles, relying on repetitive gags rather than developing its characters or story. The film’s pacing feels uneven, with some scenes dragging while others rush by. For instance, the introduction of Sacha (Sophia Guedes) as another loud neighbor feels like a contrived attempt to escalate the conflict, rather than an organic development.

The performances are a mixed bag. While Hassum shines as the beleaguered Walter, other cast members feel one-dimensional. Júlia Rabello as Joana, Walter’s wife, is underutilized, and her character serves more as a plot device than a fully realized person. Sophia Guedes as Sacha adds little to the story beyond being another loud neighbor. The supporting cast, while energetic, lacks the nuance needed to elevate the material.

The film’s direction by Roberto Santucci is similarly uneven. There are moments of visual creativity, such as the use of wide shots to emphasize Walter’s isolation amidst the chaos. However, these moments are too few and far between. Santucci often relies on static shots and basic coverage, failing to use the camera to enhance the comedy or deepen the story.

Fenced In aims for a blend of humor and heart but ultimately falls short. It’s not without its moments—Hassum’s committed performance and the occasional laugh-out-loud scene keep it from being a total misfire. However, the film’s reliance on repetitive gags and one-dimensional characters makes it feel more like a TV sitcom than a cinematic comedy.

In terms of themes, Fenced In touches on the struggle to find peace in a chaotic world. Walter’s journey is relatable—who hasn’t dreamed of escaping the noise and stress of daily life? However, the film’s execution of this theme is superficial. It never delves deep into Walter’s psyche or explores the complexities of his relationships. Instead, it settles for broad strokes and easy laughs.

The film’s target audience is likely fans of slapstick comedy and lighthearted fare. Those looking for a more sophisticated humor or a deeper exploration of its themes will be disappointed. Fenced In is a film for lazy Sunday afternoons, best enjoyed with minimal expectations.

Comparatively, Fenced In pales in comparison to other neighborhood comedies like Neighbors or Little Miss Sunshine. Those films balance humor and heart, using their comedic setups to explore deeper themes. Fenced In, on the other hand, is content to coast on its premise without adding much depth.

In conclusion, Fenced In is a missed opportunity. It has the makings of a great comedy—a relatable protagonist, a promising setup, and a talented lead actor—but it squanders its potential with repetitive gags and one-dimensional characters. The film’s humor feels forced, and its direction lacks creativity.