Silent Voices (2005 TV Movie) User Reviews

Excellent film which puts across a strong message

[linstone-1 · 8/10 · 15 January 2006]

Silent Voice graphically put across the impact of domestic abuse.

The actors were excellent in portraying what it must be like to have been the victim of abuse.

The production of the film was simple, but very effective.

Using the words of people who had actually experienced this abuse, but spoken by actors, was a good way of putting the stories across.

This film had a strong message which for me it managed to convey to the viewer.

I would hope this film is seen on other broadcasting outlets - an extremely worthwhile project.

"Boy, can this girl write!"

[david-777 · 8/10 · 7 July 2006]

A stark drama that is a strong yet accurate portrayal of the damage done in violent relationships. 'Silent Voices' tells it like it is and does not pull any punches - will tug at the heartstrings of those affected by Domestic Violence and sit back and do nothing. The actors pull us right into the script and make the words real. Director Charles Harris has treated a difficult subject with sensitivity and a light touch. These two should go far as a team. The whole thing was written and shot in under 20 weeks - a tough call on all the players, but they have pulled it off. Producer Paul Atherton yanked the lot together on a pretty low budget. He shows just what can be done if you really want something. A brilliant first drama.

Unnerving normalcy

[porche · 8/10 · 9 July 2006]

This gives a terribly unnerving and moving insight into the reality of domestic abuse.No violence is shown. None need be, for the reflective words in this tightly scripted piece are disturbing enough.That a woman should look back wistfully, even lovingly, to a man who isolated and controlled her and say now 'It seemed so romantic' or that another remembers a violent attack when the man changed instantly back to a loving individual, as though it was someone else who had just hit her, gives a horrifying insight into the psychology of both victim and abuser.Such events must happen and be happening behind the doors of many. This film is finely written, neatly played and a great credit to the makers. This old reviewer, for one, was moved to tears by it.

A harrowing but brilliant portrayal of the predicament of women in violent relationships

[sew-5 · 8/10 · 23 September 2005]

I watched this drama on the community channel and it completely blew me away with it's stark portrayal of seven people all affected by domestic violence. It contains very truthful and moving performances from the whole cast with a very blunt and honest script, not sugaring the pill at all. These people don't want sympathy, they want to raise awareness. I was particularly moved by the performances of the office worker and the prostitute. Each story is different and does not necessarily focus on the violence itself, but on some of the mental abuse and fear surrounding every day life. It also concentrates on other family members who are affected by, but not necessarily the focus of the abuse. One of the main issues that the drama highlighted for me was that abuse doesn't always involve visible scars and it can be going on anywhere, at anytime to anyone.

This film will probably save lives

[paula-177 · 10/10 · 18 August 2008]

This is an amazing film and has touched many people I know. I am so pleased that they have finally released it on DVD through Amazon.co.uk especially as all the proffits are going to charities that support the sufferers of domestic violence. This film is both engaging and harrowing. It is very moving and frightening. Obviouldy based on real life experiences all of which involving children it seems.I watched it and needed a strong drink afterwards. I am thankful that I have not ever faced the extremes of a violently abusive relationship. However haunted by the early signs illustrated by the monologues, of how the victims are beguiled by their often charming, protective abusers; then are steadily manipulated and have their confidence eroded eventually becoming isolated and trapped in a world where they feel they have no choices or means to escape. This film will probably save lives.

Amongst the worst drivel ever made

[terror_alert · 1/10 · 2 December 2006]

Long monologues to camera is a brave choice, but Talking Heads this isn't. While the subject matter is of a very serious nature, and many of the issues of domestic abuse are dealt with in a candid manner, the monologues would, at best, make nothing more than a third rate radio play.

Damani Richards' and Isla Molnar's acting stands out as particularly poor among a set of mediocre performances.

In all, Silent Voices is tortuously long. Unnecessary shots such as tracks of coffee cups and crash zooms further debase the visualisation. The characters are all too self-aware making this piece little more than a condescending sermon.