This production has its unfair share of predictable criticisms, but most of them show a shallow interpretation. As if this hugely complex theme can be summed up by superficial observances. It's impossible to put everyone in a box, with a neat label when we all have such different experiences of growing to maturity. This story, no matter how it's analysed, is head and shoulders above so many of the last two years' offerings. Sincere performances by all carry it through any possible shaky situations, with heartrendingly accurate interpretations - regardless of perhaps a little manipulation (that is, if it can even be called that...?)
Is it perhaps too slick for certain critics to take seriously (might this be part of it for some?) While it could be a theme some people might choose not to see, perhaps more should see it. There are certain sequences so painstakingly played that it looks as if they might fall over, but these professional performers carry the emotional impact to surprising effect. Young Australian performer Zen McGrath is impressive in the difficult role of the son struggling with depression.
For some members of the cast, this will be the second phase in their screen careers, but they prove totally up for it. And when in the hands of a master writer/director like Florien Zeller (The Father '17), not a great deal can go too far wrong. Award winning British cinematographer Ben Smithard (Goodbye Christopher Robin '17) is at hand to create the dazzling imagery, with veteran Hans Zimmer (The Lion King) adding the effective music score. If nit-picking, I might wonder if the visual device featuring the washing machine fully worked (?) Otherwise, a moving and professional experience.
Is it perhaps too slick for certain critics to take seriously (might this be part of it for some?) While it could be a theme some people might choose not to see, perhaps more should see it. There are certain sequences so painstakingly played that it looks as if they might fall over, but these professional performers carry the emotional impact to surprising effect. Young Australian performer Zen McGrath is impressive in the difficult role of the son struggling with depression.
For some members of the cast, this will be the second phase in their screen careers, but they prove totally up for it. And when in the hands of a master writer/director like Florien Zeller (The Father '17), not a great deal can go too far wrong. Award winning British cinematographer Ben Smithard (Goodbye Christopher Robin '17) is at hand to create the dazzling imagery, with veteran Hans Zimmer (The Lion King) adding the effective music score. If nit-picking, I might wonder if the visual device featuring the washing machine fully worked (?) Otherwise, a moving and professional experience.