Nominated for both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award [each in the Foreign Film Category], this is the best film I have seen in several months. Typically the Oscar is won before anyone can actually watch all of the nominations, which I find very frustrating. This category is the most difficult in that respect. If you take the time and make the effort to watch all of the foreign nominees there is a definite trend in what kind of films get nominated and what kind win. This makes since, the judges are human, have opinions, and for such a small committee they will lean the same way regularly.To me this film never had a chance to actually win the Oscar. The subject matter is too difficult. Killing, drugs, cursing,... let's just say you need to be prepared for a movie that deserves it's R rating.
The story follows Malik [Tahar Rahim, an unknown actor to this point] as he starts his prison term. A poor boy with few friends and no family who is determined to make it in prison on his own. He is quickly forced into compromising situations and through the suggestion of a friend he learns that he needs to use his time in prison to become a better person. [e.g. make connections, get an education, etc]
The last thing I want to do is reveal how his time in prison is spent and the happenings surrounding his sentence. Let's just say that the story is gripping, unique, and exciting. You really have to pay attention to enjoy this one, race and religion and big factors, but you will find this one well worth your time.
After I watch The Secret in their Eyes [Oscar Winner] and The White Ribbon [Globe Winner] I will discuss in those reviews which one I would have picked for best film. It will take a lot to top this one.
Vote: 9/10
IMDB Link: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1235166/
meh...this one was alright...a bit confusing and the whole "prophet" angle wasn't developed at all.
Trả lờiXóa