ARGO is as entertaining movie as it is informative of a serious-and contemporary-topic. Ben Affleck has stellar performance, as director and as lead-actor. The soundtrack is engaging until the, and its plot advances smoothly. The film flows, period. In part, perhaps, because it portrays the tense and intense relations, which have remained to this day, between Iran and the US. Viewers might appreciate the mixing of historical footage with newly filmed material for a renewed sense of immediacy regarding the films. This is a gem of a film.
Reviews
28 Reviews
Son of Saul
(2015)
A poignant and personal encounter with a man and his persistence
29 August 2020
A poignant and personal encounter with a Hungarian Jewish man in a concentration camp obsessed with giving a proper burial to a boy. Rendered with superb acting, costumes, sound system, and cinematography, Son of Saul is a piece of art. The film explores themes of dogged persistence of an inmate in the face of adversity, the cruel treatment imposed by soldiers, and the dehumanizing nature of camps. The film also explores, and beautifully, the value of tradition for the main character, Aslünder Saul, as he undertakes a dangerous path. Among its highlights, the film's extensive use of closeups makes this a truly intimate journey with Saul's process, redemption, and courage. Besides, it is a one-of-a-kind feature-film on concentration camps making explicit each step of a laborer while still giving voice, though in the background, to the brutalities of life and death in a camp. Certainly, the viewer must expect an encounter with great pain, with nudity, and with a large number of cruelties and deaths. However, the film is worth the bearing, and a deserving work for an academic award for best foreign-language film.
Mostly Martha
(2001)
A quiet and captivating meditation on love amidst great cooking and cultural nuances between Italy and Germany
10 August 2020
A quiet meditation on change of heart for an established and hard-to-get cook. Bella Martha (a.k.a. Mostly Martha) brings forward the cultural nuances between Italy and Germany in a humorous fashion. It has an endearing and touching plot involving loss and reparation, and a really beautiful set of photographs and shots of cooks who know what they do, and do so at their best. This is a pleasant and captivating film, very worth the watch.
10.000 Km
(2014)
Pleasant and superb acting at a slow pace with revealing messages on challenges of long-distance relationships
10 August 2020
With pleasant cinematography and superb acting, 10,000km features the complications of a long-distance relationship that may appear as initially close, but which becomes increasingly stagnant and sour over time. Issues of couple's communication bubble up over time, and show how fast couples may deteriorate in their romance due, in part, to distance. The film is a dramatic portrayal of loss and of change, of the difficulties couples face when entering into a long-distance romance.
Monsters, Inc.
(2001)
Uniquely Funny, Extraordinarily Creative
8 August 2020
Creative, funny, extraordinary and unique. Monsters, Inc. by the fabulous minds based at Pixar, delivers an entertaining and endearing experience of two monsters, Sulley and Mike. Sulley and Mike change and are changed by their affection for Boo. Boo (i.e., Mary) is an adorable character who draws out empathy even from monstrous souls. That empathy is precisely the fate that takes hold of frightening monsters, who were once drawn to generating screams out of children, but then, after Boo, are transformed into heartwarming creatures to children. Monsters, Inc. is an ingenious and heartwarming family-wide experience, that offers beautiful visuals, fascinating concepts, as well as and the unusual, out-of-the-box portrayal of the relationship between monsters and children. A star of a film.
Onward
(I) (2020)
A Visually Stimulating and Pleasant Brotherly Journey
8 August 2020
Onward offers, especially to teens and to young adults, an outlet for mythology-based jokes RPG-based humor, both of which once marked a generation. The journey addresses brotherly love and differences and, most clearly, the journeys sons take to better understand and know their fathers. Thus mixing a variety of mythological characters with a heartbreaking journey, this Pixar animation results in a visually stimulating and pleasant experience, most suitable to teenagers and young adults .
Steel Magnolias
(1989)
An immersive experience into the heart and soul of the Southern U.S. in the late 1980s
2 August 2020
An immersive experience into the heart and the soul of a small-town community in the South of the United States. Portraying the lives of women, their struggles and the kitsch of their quotidian lives, Steel Magnolias gives viewers a "day in the life" of Shelby (Julia Roberts) and her mother M'Lynn (Sally Field), while also expressing the small-town talks and quirks of others. This is an informative, entertaining and funny film of special interest to viewers curious about the uniqueness and character of the Louisiana and Southern American spirit. Finally, themes of love and newness, of loss and death, and of family ties and commitments are explored with a full-range of emotions, from the tragic to the redemptive. A worthwhile family experience.
Toy Story 4
(2019)
A worthwhile, visually-stimulating journey that could have added more layers to storytelling--but still worth it.
23 July 2020
Toy Story 4 offers what great animated films are best at delivering: a compelling and engaging visual experience, with beautiful soundtrack, and some catchy phrases and themes that the viewer will remember long after the film. In the case of Toy story, highlights include the friendship between Buzz and Woody, and certainly Woody's altruism for his new kid (Bonnie). In addition, Toy Story 4 also offers an emotional experience, the epic journey of overcoming villains, and toys' quest to retrieve Bonnie's newly made toy creation. However, despite its rich universe and compelling world, the film 4 only fell short, to my eyes, in its narrative: overall, it views more as an entertaining visual feast than as a masterpiece (as its predecessors) in storytelling. Still, it remains as entertaining as the earlier movies of this series. A worthwhile watch for the entire family, most certainly.
Notting Hill
(1999)
A sweet--overly sweet, perhaps--funny and endearing experience
13 July 2020
Notting Hill offers a sweet and endearing experience to viewers. At times, an experience that feels overly sweet, and excessively endearing, but sweet regardless. The film portrays the classic story of a wealthy, famous, and hard-to-reach damsel (Anna Scott, played by Julia Roberts), sought after by a mortal, common plebeian (William Thacker, played by Hugh Grant). And despite the themed cliché, the narrative offers some twists and turns, some overly dramatized, while others unusual, that play with the heart of the viewer, offers some smiles from time to time, and some unbelief as well.
But still, all expectations aside, viewers will know, pretty much, what they will witness at the end of the film, and will wonder if that was really the most realistic picture that could have been. Most interestingly, the film could have offered a deeper and more substantial exploration of the characters was warranted: who really was Anna Scott, and who really was William Thacker remained as elusive as Anna's smiles and William's chase thereafter. Certainly, it could have offered a more endearing experience, and a more memorable one, too, if more conversations as that of William's sister's birthday party were featured. That way, one wouldn't end the film knowing almost as little about the characters as one knew in the beginning.
Regardless, perhaps that was not the point of the writers and directors. Perhaps the capturing of viewer's attention with the looks of the characters was meant to drive sales and story. But still, to those looking for a change of scenery from mostly U.S. based films, Notting Hill offers a nice peak into neighborhoods and sceneries of England.
But still, all expectations aside, viewers will know, pretty much, what they will witness at the end of the film, and will wonder if that was really the most realistic picture that could have been. Most interestingly, the film could have offered a deeper and more substantial exploration of the characters was warranted: who really was Anna Scott, and who really was William Thacker remained as elusive as Anna's smiles and William's chase thereafter. Certainly, it could have offered a more endearing experience, and a more memorable one, too, if more conversations as that of William's sister's birthday party were featured. That way, one wouldn't end the film knowing almost as little about the characters as one knew in the beginning.
Regardless, perhaps that was not the point of the writers and directors. Perhaps the capturing of viewer's attention with the looks of the characters was meant to drive sales and story. But still, to those looking for a change of scenery from mostly U.S. based films, Notting Hill offers a nice peak into neighborhoods and sceneries of England.
Rocketman
(I) (2019)
A Kaleidospic View into the Crises, Opportunities, Tensions and Redemptions in Elton John's life, and on his Music
5 July 2020
Rocketman offers a peak into the early life, adolescence, and years musical ascension of legendary Sir Elton John. It features Elton John's nuclear family environment, his calling and talent for music, and his longing for love above all.
The film offers a naked view of his struggles at home, with his search for his relational and professional identities, and for his sheer talent and stage presence. Featuring. also, his famous songs in the context of his life stages and experiences, the musicality of the film comes through, at times on-point, at times not so much.
And yet, all in all, the film "works" in its own way: it lends you a kaleidoscopic view into the crises, opportunities, healings and reparations through which Sir John passed and survived. T
At the end, the viewer will thus be well-informed of the artist's life story, and of some of his hit songs too, while left impressed with the excellent acting by the lead actor.
The only points of improvement, to my view on the film, would be on providing for a more immersive experience into how it felt like to be in one of his concerts, through photography, audience views, and the like, and on the landscape and photography of the settings featured (e.g., London, LA, Australia, among other places). But still, Rocketman views as a pleasant film, worth watching for the sake of discovery of this man's heart, pains, and achievements.
The film offers a naked view of his struggles at home, with his search for his relational and professional identities, and for his sheer talent and stage presence. Featuring. also, his famous songs in the context of his life stages and experiences, the musicality of the film comes through, at times on-point, at times not so much.
And yet, all in all, the film "works" in its own way: it lends you a kaleidoscopic view into the crises, opportunities, healings and reparations through which Sir John passed and survived. T
At the end, the viewer will thus be well-informed of the artist's life story, and of some of his hit songs too, while left impressed with the excellent acting by the lead actor.
The only points of improvement, to my view on the film, would be on providing for a more immersive experience into how it felt like to be in one of his concerts, through photography, audience views, and the like, and on the landscape and photography of the settings featured (e.g., London, LA, Australia, among other places). But still, Rocketman views as a pleasant film, worth watching for the sake of discovery of this man's heart, pains, and achievements.
The Pixar Story
(2007)
An informative, inspiring, and important film, spanning Pixar's story, and the story of technological advancement through 3-D animation
5 July 2020
An informative, inspiring, and important film, spanning Pixar's story, and the story of technological advancement through 3-D animation. The documentary walks us through the pre-Pixar era, covering the rudimentary computer graphics in development through the 1970s and 1980s, when Star Wars and Star Trek's special effects ignited a new era in filmmaking . Then, the film describes the early day of Pixar's early founders (e.g., John Lasseter) in venturing through Disney's territory of 2-D animations in general, and his happenstance with Steve Jobs. Some immersive footage and reports are featured in the film all along, transporting the viewer back to the days covered. Further, the viewer will also become familiar with both the early technological challenges and later psychological roadblocks that appeared from a small company that became, in essence, an overnight success (thanks to films like Toy Story). The company's challenges with Disney were also described, and the recreation of the Pixar's leadership and offerings, featuring films from a number of talented and creative director, are also covered. The Pixar Story, therefore, brings inthe contextual and personal factors that have made Pixar the company it then was in 2007, and the company it has now become. This is a must-see for the curious mind on Pixar and for those interested in the computer graphics and animation revolution that Pixar helped launch.
Coco
(I) (2017)
A powerful and unforgettable story of family, of love and of music.
28 June 2020
Coco is a powerful and unforgettable story of family, of love, and of music. Backdropped by the tradition of the Day of the Dead within Mexican culture, the film displays, Miguel, a young and relatable boy who lives a story of adventure and search for truth in hope of rescuing both his dream for music, and, unbeknownst to him, his own family, cultural heritage, and soul. Touching and beautiful, musical and memorable, Coco is a visual treat for children, an emotional good to parents, and a family joy for all. A highly recommended film, much deserving the Oscars it won!
Ratatouille
(2007)
A Multi-Layered Feast
28 June 2020
Ratatouille is a multi-layered feast, covering themes of friendship, dreams, family, and overcoming obstacles, all inspired by French cooking and the haute cuisine. "Set" in Paris, the animation serves as a tribute to the history and joys of culinary art while bringing plot twists and surprises, and the best of one from whom one expects little. Both visually appealing and musically engaging, the film also offers a social critique on the tendency for the culinary arts to be male-dominant and hierarchical, as well as, the tendency to bring of other countries to commodify French heritage and high cooking for profit on fast food chains, for example--a subtle point touching on French-American tensions regarding dieting and cooking. This is, by far, a meritorious winner of an Oscar, and a powerful story, symbolic and subtle, on the road to achieving one's dreams in the most delicious of ways.
Twenty Feet from Stardom
(2013)
An Informative and Eye-Opening Tribute that Gives Voice to Unspoken Heroes of 20th Century Music
26 June 2020
Twenty Feet from Stardom is an informative and powerful demonstration of the lives and souls of key backup singers to various famous musicians. The film's power lies in its tribute and honoring of unsung heroes, of unspoken stars in the world of R&B, Rock, and pop music. With vintage and modern footage, with powerful vocal performances and memorable interviews, the documentary makes for a compelling case for music connoisseurs to pay more attention to who really singing their favorite music. In other words, the film brings justice to their cause, although at times, in a repetitive format. That is, it could have delivered the same message perhaps a bit more shortly in order to remain more captivating and engaging all throughout. But, for music lovers and those curious, about behind-the-scenes music-making and the talent and heart of some of the most talented musicians, this is a worthwhile film.
Sing
(2016)
A beautiful look into the voices of children, and the moral compass of a brave and loyal girl.
23 June 2020
Mindenki ("Sing") offers a window into the heart and soul of a friendship and loyalty, of fairness and justice through the eyes of a young Hungarian girl. The film does beautifully with its use of choir and music, thus reinforcing emotions and the gravitas to the symbolism and tension between silence and freedom of speech, a theme that runs implicitly through the film. And still, "Sing" also offers a sweet, reminiscent look into child's play and the power of art and of fairness as primary for children. A beautiful, must-see, and redemptive film, sure to touch any or all who have also felt silenced and who needed a friend at times. A joy and a masterpiece of Hungarian cinema.
Isle of Flowers
(1989)
A satirical portrayal of a time and place still sadly akin to our present day
23 June 2020
"Ilha das Flores" offers a humorous, satirical, but educational lens into poverty, scarcity, and inequality in Southern Brazil and beyond. This short, 13-minute documentary runs as a satire, humorous, and nuanced as it shows and discusses the persisting social problem of hunger and poverty.
While defining every concept explained, the narrator, ultimately leaves undefined the great social issue at hand. Thus, it remains the responsibility of the viewers, therefore, to make sense and define the problem for themselves.
All in all, the film is a remarkable showcase of irony and, so, it feels poignantly humorous. In sum, it is a film worth watching that shows harsh realities in an accessible and sophisticated way.
While defining every concept explained, the narrator, ultimately leaves undefined the great social issue at hand. Thus, it remains the responsibility of the viewers, therefore, to make sense and define the problem for themselves.
All in all, the film is a remarkable showcase of irony and, so, it feels poignantly humorous. In sum, it is a film worth watching that shows harsh realities in an accessible and sophisticated way.
Citizenfour
(2014)
A Humane Look into the Person Behind the Story of a Most Serious and Controversial Event in World History
23 June 2020
Citizenfour offers a humane look into the person behind the serious and controversial leaks of top-secret private governmental secrets around the globe. The film serves as a statement to the tensions inherent between freedom of speech and national security, at least as conceptualized in the modern age by the world most powerful governments. All of it, seen through the eyes of Snowden, the documentarian, and some journalists. Citizenfour runs as a political and investigative thriller, cerebral at times, yet mostly informative, surprising, and revealing. And all done with an attention to process, to time and to space, and to the way things unfolded for Snowden and the journalists involved. An achievement in story-telling and for its journalistic portrayals of an intense and serious period.
A Dog's Will
(2000)
A Humorous, Spiritual, and Lighthearted Portrayal of the Brazilian Northeast, Its Folklores, Classes, Habits, and Language
21 June 2020
"O Auto da Compadecida," commonly translated as "A Dog's Will" (a translation which, to my ears, waters down the significance, the gravitas, and the poetry of the title in the original) is a sure-classic and a phenomenon of the Brazilian cinema and popular culture of the recent past and of modernity in the rural communities of its countryside. The film has marked the heart and the soul of an entire generation since the dawn of the twenty-first century, and features lines and words still common-parlance among the average Brazilian (e.g., João Grilo's : "Não sei não... Só sei que foi assim. ("I don't know--all I know it was so"))
All in all, the film portrays themes of class, spiritual feelings, and some legendary figures of the folklore and of the past of the Brazilian drylands and Northeast. In a way, "O Auto da Compadecida" memorializes through the friendship of Chicó and João Grilo an entire generation and past, an entire dialectic and language, all done with outstanding actors, actresses, and acting overall.
This is surely a landmark of Brazilian cinema, imagination, and one that is sure to delight those open to receive its humor and themes of love, spirituality, redemption, and forgiveness.
All in all, the film portrays themes of class, spiritual feelings, and some legendary figures of the folklore and of the past of the Brazilian drylands and Northeast. In a way, "O Auto da Compadecida" memorializes through the friendship of Chicó and João Grilo an entire generation and past, an entire dialectic and language, all done with outstanding actors, actresses, and acting overall.
This is surely a landmark of Brazilian cinema, imagination, and one that is sure to delight those open to receive its humor and themes of love, spirituality, redemption, and forgiveness.
13th
(2016)
Too Important of a Documentary to be Missed
20 June 2020
This is too important of a documentary to be missed.
All in all, 13th offers a cohesive, informed, and coherent narrative, marked by a large body of evidence and by historical footage, of the painful throes that racial discrimination has played in the heart and soul of the American nation.
Edited and told with great mastery for combining heartfelt story-telling and cerebral presentation of data and of facts, 13th is sure to raise awareness onto a controversial and too-serious of an issue that no longer may be ignored.
This is a must-see for those seeking more comprehensive understanding of the nuances of racial discrimination in the United States since the Civil Rights movement.
All in all, 13th offers a cohesive, informed, and coherent narrative, marked by a large body of evidence and by historical footage, of the painful throes that racial discrimination has played in the heart and soul of the American nation.
Edited and told with great mastery for combining heartfelt story-telling and cerebral presentation of data and of facts, 13th is sure to raise awareness onto a controversial and too-serious of an issue that no longer may be ignored.
This is a must-see for those seeking more comprehensive understanding of the nuances of racial discrimination in the United States since the Civil Rights movement.
Becoming
(II) (2020)
An Informative and Intimate Look into the Life of a Remarkable Woman
20 June 2020
Becoming offers a personal, intimate, and close look into the life and the story of Mrs. Michelle Obama. Her path from her early days in Chicago through Princeton and Harvard, towards Obama, and culminating with her eight-year saga as the First Lady were captured beautifully. One is sure to leave the film aware of challenges and personal experiences that marked by many suns and moons on this earth.
As a whole, the gave her image and strengthened her voice as a woman whose importance might be said to have been shadowed by the prominence of her husband. And still, she has certainly, as the documentary captures, gone beyond him as a symbol and a voice for minorities and for all youth; her story is truly a testament to the power of each one of our stories, and of believing in oneself beyond what circumstances and circumscribed conditions.
All in all, this was a touching and intimate documentary, whose impact is stronger on those who haven't read her book, and who may have only known Michelle as the wife of Obama.
As a whole, the gave her image and strengthened her voice as a woman whose importance might be said to have been shadowed by the prominence of her husband. And still, she has certainly, as the documentary captures, gone beyond him as a symbol and a voice for minorities and for all youth; her story is truly a testament to the power of each one of our stories, and of believing in oneself beyond what circumstances and circumscribed conditions.
All in all, this was a touching and intimate documentary, whose impact is stronger on those who haven't read her book, and who may have only known Michelle as the wife of Obama.
The Boy and the World
(2013)
A long-winded but visually appealing portrayal of a rural child's world as he encounters the city
17 June 2020
Boy and the World is best-enjoyed if seen for its visually-appealing and special imagery. The story line is simple and, in a way, universal: a young boy searching and longing for his father. Such a plot is juxtaposed with social commentary on automation, mass economy, advertising culture, and on dangers of a globalized market on the environment. It runs as neither a happy nor sad film, but in the interstitial spaces of change, loss, and ultimately, hope.
While pleasant to watch, the film came across as taking too long to make its main points: it felt it could have been more effective if shortened to 50 minutes or so. In addition, while interesting in its use of gibberish for language, the power of language seemed like wasted and lost. On that note, I am confident that words in this mostly silent but musical film would add for a powerful and memorable effect: would bring us closer to the heart and soul of characters, and their hopes.
Yet all in all, Boy and the World offers a pleasant weekend afternoon conveying both child and adult themes at once. It is best appreciated if watched by both an adult and a child, so the mixing between vivid visuals and critical message are discussed, and explored. The age group of 8-12 seems optimal for this film, with an accompanying teacher or adult to guide a discussion afterwards.
While pleasant to watch, the film came across as taking too long to make its main points: it felt it could have been more effective if shortened to 50 minutes or so. In addition, while interesting in its use of gibberish for language, the power of language seemed like wasted and lost. On that note, I am confident that words in this mostly silent but musical film would add for a powerful and memorable effect: would bring us closer to the heart and soul of characters, and their hopes.
Yet all in all, Boy and the World offers a pleasant weekend afternoon conveying both child and adult themes at once. It is best appreciated if watched by both an adult and a child, so the mixing between vivid visuals and critical message are discussed, and explored. The age group of 8-12 seems optimal for this film, with an accompanying teacher or adult to guide a discussion afterwards.
Aquarius
(I) (2016)
An Emotional and Intimate Journey to the Heart and Family of An Iconic Woman
17 June 2020
Aquarius is an emotional and dramatic saga, featuring Clara in her fight for her apartment. In a world of expansive corporate engineering practices, Clara fights and hard for what she had and inherited.
Emotionally, Aquarius runs as a mix of drama and thriller. The film it leaves the viewer on edge at times, witnessing the covert tension Clara herself experienced and the engineers placed on her. The film's ending is unique and ending, so expect to ponder how the heck a resolution would be reached ultimately.
Besides plot twists, Aquarius also portrays the intimate experiences of Clara, her love for Brazilian and international music. It features a nice selection of songs and rhythms.
Finally, Aquarius also gives voice aspects of Brazilian society, such as the class division, and the shared experience of light in a coastal city, almost in passage, but beautifully.
In sum, It is an emotional, long, and intimate journey into the heart and experiences of an iconic and unforgettable woman. It may feel long at times and slow, but it is sure to pick up later on. It is a hard film to watch, but one superbly acted and edited.
Emotionally, Aquarius runs as a mix of drama and thriller. The film it leaves the viewer on edge at times, witnessing the covert tension Clara herself experienced and the engineers placed on her. The film's ending is unique and ending, so expect to ponder how the heck a resolution would be reached ultimately.
Besides plot twists, Aquarius also portrays the intimate experiences of Clara, her love for Brazilian and international music. It features a nice selection of songs and rhythms.
Finally, Aquarius also gives voice aspects of Brazilian society, such as the class division, and the shared experience of light in a coastal city, almost in passage, but beautifully.
In sum, It is an emotional, long, and intimate journey into the heart and experiences of an iconic and unforgettable woman. It may feel long at times and slow, but it is sure to pick up later on. It is a hard film to watch, but one superbly acted and edited.
12
(2007)
A Collage of the Russian Psyche, Society, and Culture.
14 June 2020
"12" is a film about pain and loss, but of mercy, triumph, and redemption. The film portrays the unique and symbolic stories of twelve Russian, and of the one common truth that has brought them together: the trialed life of a young Chechen boy. 12 is conversational but serious, lighthearted at times, but dark when needed. Actors are masterful. Collectively, they compose a Russian brotherhood, made up of men from various origins and stories: the Georgian, the Muscovite, the Jewish man, the Wealthy, the Simple-hearted, and the School Janitor. Many faces, many stories, all collaged into one growing, and unique society. This is, by far one of the most enthralling and serious portrayals of the diversity of Russian stories and voices. 12 is a serious and important Russian film of the modern times.
Silent Souls
(2010)
A Passenger's View into the A Desolate Portrait into the Life and Customs of the Merya
11 June 2020
Silent Souls. A fitting adapted English title to this film. In short, Aist and Miron serve as the guides to a desolate portrait into the life of the Merya people of Russia. The journey is centered on the grieving of a husband for his wife, and on the the associated death rites. As such, the film gives viewers a passenger's perspective into the customs and thoughts of a people whose rituals have been disappearing. All in all, Silent Souls is informative and simple, dragging viewers slowly into a surprising and symbolic conclusion. It is a film best observed through the gaze of an anthropologist or ethnographer, and taken in with the intention to learn and absorb a culture that to most will be new and foreign. In sum, one ought not to expect Hollywoodian diversions.
Leviathan
(2014)
A Symbolic Voyage Into The Small Fishing Town of Northern Russia
8 June 2020
Leviathan is symbolic voyage into the hearts and intimate lives of Kolya, Lilya, Roma and Dima. The film shed lights on the "little man" motif of the Russian art, portraying tragedy and an irony of fate as experienced by a Nikolay. It is full of symbolisms, which makes it for an intelligent, sophisticated experience. Nuances in scripture are used in reference to the life events of the little man, Kolya.
God, Truth, and Fate are discussed given the backdrop of Kolya's search for meaning. That, the film does masterly, exploring the ways religion interweaves with state in fascinating ways. In turn, themes ranging from fatherhood and emotional distance, friendship and betrayal, deception and drunkenness are meticulously portrayed, all the while informing the viewer of nuances of the lives and feelings of characters.
In sum, Leviathan bears witness to loss, to glimpses of hope, and to the rise of an ironic unfolding among the poor and the wealthy, the powerful and the powerless. This is a film that leaves no empty figures, but the fullness of fate, power, and the paying for a crime is hasn't committed.
God, Truth, and Fate are discussed given the backdrop of Kolya's search for meaning. That, the film does masterly, exploring the ways religion interweaves with state in fascinating ways. In turn, themes ranging from fatherhood and emotional distance, friendship and betrayal, deception and drunkenness are meticulously portrayed, all the while informing the viewer of nuances of the lives and feelings of characters.
In sum, Leviathan bears witness to loss, to glimpses of hope, and to the rise of an ironic unfolding among the poor and the wealthy, the powerful and the powerless. This is a film that leaves no empty figures, but the fullness of fate, power, and the paying for a crime is hasn't committed.
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