Many masterpieces are recognized well after they come and go. Van Gogh sold only a few paintings in his life. No, this isn't a masterpiece of Van Gogh statue, and won't be the of the 2-3 best films of the year, but it is one of the finer drama films in the past several years. And the novel by Nobel Prize winner Coetzee should be seen as a superior gem. However, this film is a gem in its own rights. Beautifully acted by Mark Rylance, Johnny Depp and Robert Pattinson, this film is mythical and timeless as a study of human nature, power, imperialism, and how conquerors dehumanize and how resistance forms. It is filmed in Morroco and is namelessly fictitious in its thematic treatment of the subject. Cinematography and film score are beautiful. Unfortunately, critics today are a bit shallow and people need increasing stimulation and this film does not meet those expectations. As other people may say, it is a slow burn into myth. But very worth seeing for mature audiences who appreciate philosophical interpretations of human nature and conquest. Actual rating 8.5 or the type of film which is a minor masterpiece deserving to win a few awards at lesser film festivals.
Review of Waiting for the Barbarians
