Norwegian filmmaker Anna Gutto makes her first full-length feature film debut as writer and director for this film (with only a handful of prior short films), and she did not disappoint.
Sure it wasn't perfect or action packed like everyone expects every movie to be, but Gutto's directing was on point - for a newb filmmaker, and managed to keep that constant tension of suspense.
Her writing did have some continuity and plot issues, and probably needed better editing and some scenes cut down or omitted, because the 115 min runtime felt much longer, especially with the slow pace and extended and/or unnecessary scenes. Even some of the dialogue felt convoluted, and the tone of the film could've been more upbeat.
However, the cinematography and score were spot-on. The casting and performances were excellent and convincing, especially considering Gutto's inexperience in directing her cast. Yet still, little Hala Finley as Leila shined and stole the show with some breathtaking and heart-wrenching scenes.
I actually enjoyed this more than expected, maybe because I have a young daughter and can relate to such atrocities, and found it refreshing that the focus of the police was more on saving the kids rather than catching the bad guys.
For a newb filmmaker making her feature film debut, and the few rookie mistakes forgiven, I applaud Gutto for giving us this gem of a film. It's a well deserved 8/10 from me.
Sure it wasn't perfect or action packed like everyone expects every movie to be, but Gutto's directing was on point - for a newb filmmaker, and managed to keep that constant tension of suspense.
Her writing did have some continuity and plot issues, and probably needed better editing and some scenes cut down or omitted, because the 115 min runtime felt much longer, especially with the slow pace and extended and/or unnecessary scenes. Even some of the dialogue felt convoluted, and the tone of the film could've been more upbeat.
However, the cinematography and score were spot-on. The casting and performances were excellent and convincing, especially considering Gutto's inexperience in directing her cast. Yet still, little Hala Finley as Leila shined and stole the show with some breathtaking and heart-wrenching scenes.
I actually enjoyed this more than expected, maybe because I have a young daughter and can relate to such atrocities, and found it refreshing that the focus of the police was more on saving the kids rather than catching the bad guys.
For a newb filmmaker making her feature film debut, and the few rookie mistakes forgiven, I applaud Gutto for giving us this gem of a film. It's a well deserved 8/10 from me.