This film constantly showcases incredibly strong framing with a good balance of tension and release. Pacing is slow but intentional. Acting is fairly good especially considering half the actors are children. This film has a lot of positive things going on.
The score is really what elevates this film. The film uses a very limited score but intersplices muted dialogue and sound from the environment (truck door closing, gun cocking, etc) to really stress moments of tension. It is an incredibly useful tool that I have rarely seen used so expertly.
The weakest part of this whole movie is the plot, which is a shame. The writing of the plot create a disjointed mess of disparaging events. Characters act inconsistent and the climax occurs as an almost random act of someone barely integral to the plot. Sequences happen that are never touched on again. Very disappointing for a film with such a powerful start.
If you are a fan of film this movie has a lot going for it. Great dialogue, a unique score, and beautiful framing. Robert Machoian has shown that he has potential as a director, but I have some doubts about his future as a writer. The tools used here on another screenplay could have been a real treat. Instead we are left with a haunting film that setups much but fulfills very little. Overall I enjoyed my time with this film, but I'm a fan who can forgive a lackluster plot.
The score is really what elevates this film. The film uses a very limited score but intersplices muted dialogue and sound from the environment (truck door closing, gun cocking, etc) to really stress moments of tension. It is an incredibly useful tool that I have rarely seen used so expertly.
The weakest part of this whole movie is the plot, which is a shame. The writing of the plot create a disjointed mess of disparaging events. Characters act inconsistent and the climax occurs as an almost random act of someone barely integral to the plot. Sequences happen that are never touched on again. Very disappointing for a film with such a powerful start.
If you are a fan of film this movie has a lot going for it. Great dialogue, a unique score, and beautiful framing. Robert Machoian has shown that he has potential as a director, but I have some doubts about his future as a writer. The tools used here on another screenplay could have been a real treat. Instead we are left with a haunting film that setups much but fulfills very little. Overall I enjoyed my time with this film, but I'm a fan who can forgive a lackluster plot.