4 Months, 3 weeks And 2 Days

Deathly dull

Once again all the positive reviews of this film are 'worthy'.

When you break it down to reality this is an exceedingly dull piece of filmmaking. Makes you wonder what you have to do to win these awards. . . . let's see . . . .

1. Does the film look ugly. . . . tick!

2. Is the subject matter worthy or controversial. . . . tick!

3. Is it dull as a viewing experience. . . . tick!

4. Is it subtitled. . . . . double tick for that one!

5. Are there supposedly meaningful lingering shots or interminable scenes. . . .tick, tick, tick!!!!!!

Hmmmmm, will think twice about 'award winning films' in future then!!

If you want to be entertained, avoid this one!

[Highly rated reviewer]

A technical masterpiece, but... Yikes!

This film is a real downer. I suppose the subject of abortions (illegal or otherwise) isn't exactly uplifting, but this film is as grey and dismal as the iron curtain culture it portrays.

The director does a very good job of putting the viewer into the shoes of Otilia, the main character who helps her friend obtain an illegal abortion. You'll be as angry as Otilia at many elements of the story - the stupidity of Gabita (the character getting the abortion), the person performing the abortion, Otilia's boyfriend and his family. Only Otilia emerges from this with any sympathy from the audience. I suppose this is a tribute to the acting, but it doesn't necessarily make for enjoyable viewing. Equally powerful is the way brutal scenes were portrayed completely off-camera.

Much has been credited to the cinematography and the beauty of the film. Let's face it, the camerawork was as grey, drab and almost grainy as the big brother society it portrayed. While artistically clever in guiding the tone of the film, I'm hard-pressed to label this 'beautiful'.

Technically 4,3,2 may well be a masterpiece. Unfortunately this isn't my idea of viewing enjoyment.