62
Metascore
15 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 75Christian Science MonitorDavid SterrittChristian Science MonitorDavid SterrittThis unusual Macedonian release is engrossing if not always nimbly directed.
- 75New York PostV.A. MusettoNew York PostV.A. MusettoNicely acted and stylishly photographed.
- 70The Hollywood ReporterSheri LindenThe Hollywood ReporterSheri LindenAdapting the novel by Zhivko Chingo, director Trajkov and his co-scripter, Vladimir Blazevski, have created a searing memory piece. Suki Medencevic's widescreen cinematography illuminates a shadow realm halfway between heaven and hell.
- 70The A.V. ClubNoel MurrayThe A.V. ClubNoel MurrayHad the orphanage years been the first chapter in a longer story, The Great Water might've stretched toward a finish as unforgettable as its start.
- 70The New York TimesLawrence Van GelderThe New York TimesLawrence Van GelderWhat makes the film worth watching are the extraordinary performances by the more than 250 children cast as orphans.
- 60VarietyRobert KoehlerVarietyRobert KoehlerExtraordinary perfs by a mostly young cast likely will be cancelled out by the grim subject.
- 60Village VoiceLeslie CamhiVillage VoiceLeslie CamhiDespite the choppy script and cartoonishly bad villains, what emerges is a compelling tale of the moral compromises a corrupt system demands of even its most unwilling participants.
- 50Film ThreatPhil HallFilm ThreatPhil HallGrim and frequently depressing, and despite the artistry of its framing it nonetheless is a very difficult movie to endure.
- 50New York Daily NewsJack MathewsNew York Daily NewsJack MathewsUltimately about the indomitability of faith, and the Christian symbolism is laid on thick. But the story, adapted from a famous behind-the-Iron-Curtain novel, sheds light on a subject few people have known about.