A Well-Shot, Emotional Film

Rating: 8/10 (5 October 2019)

I particularly enjoyed the use of long-drawn out shots during important events of the mother's life. I felt they were the most important aspect of drawing the emotion out of those scenes; and there was plenty to be drawn out. Additionally, the acting in the film was exceptional, especially Lubna Azabal, who plays Nawal, and Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin, who plays Jeanne. I really felt as if I was watching the family's past unfold before my eyes, and every emotion the characters felt were real and worth having. I also enjoyed the plot twist that came at the end. It felt built towards and hinted in a way so that it was not contrived. There is so much going on with this film, so unfortunately anything I can say cannot fully encapsulate how great of a film this is. Villeneuve has definitely earned a spot among my favorite directors working today, and I recommend you see this film to appreciate why.