Movie spotlight
Listen
A foreign woman in a burqa brings her young son to a Copenhagen police station to file a complaint against her abusive husband, but the translator assigned to her seems unwilling to convey the true meaning of her words. A tense, diamond-hard film about cultural isolation and bureaucratic ignorance.
Insights
Plot Summary
This Portuguese drama follows the life of a young woman named Liliana who is dealing with the complexities of her family relationships, particularly her strained connection with her mother. As she navigates her own life and burgeoning relationships, she is confronted with the weight of past secrets and unspoken tensions within her family. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the search for identity against the backdrop of contemporary Portugal.
Critical Reception
Listen received a mixed to positive reception from critics, who often praised its atmospheric direction and strong performances, particularly from its lead actress. Some found the pacing deliberate and the narrative challenging, while others appreciated its subtle exploration of family dynamics and emotional depth.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its artistic direction and atmospheric mood.
Noted for its sensitive portrayal of complex family relationships.
Some reviews found the narrative to be slow-moving or ambiguous.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for 'Listen' (2014) is not readily available.
Awards & Accolades
Screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2014.
Fun Fact
Director Ana Rocha's debut feature film, 'Listen,' was developed through various international workshops and residencies.
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