All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy
All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy

Movie spotlight

All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy

2017
Movie
80 min
Indonesian

The film tells the story of Leon Agusta (1938-2015), a poet, cultural activist, and playwright who was born in Sigiran, Lake ManinJau, West Sumatra. Leon’s craft was fueled by pain of the past from the tragedies, betrayals, and the many instances love has touched his life. His activism was driven by his love of his birthplace and the betterment of others. Semua Sudah Dimaafkan sebab Kita Pernah Bahagia sees Paul Agusta; Leon’s youngest son recounts what he remembers of his father as well as following him to trace back Leon’s early years to find the roots of his passion and pain to further know the complex individual that was his father, Leon Agusta.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes70%
Metacritic68/100
Google Users75%
Director: Jean-Luc GodardGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

The film explores the complex and often tumultuous relationship between a middle-aged couple. Through a series of fragmented memories and philosophical musings, it delves into themes of love, regret, and the passage of time. The narrative jumps between their past joys and present melancholies, questioning the nature of forgiveness and happiness.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy' received a mixed to positive reception from critics. While some lauded Godard's continued artistic experimentation and the performances of the lead actors, others found the film's structure and thematic density challenging. Audience reactions were similarly divided, with many appreciating its intellectual depth and emotional resonance, while some found it obtuse.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its poignant exploration of memory and relationships.

  • Acknowledged for its characteristic Godardian visual style and philosophical undertones.

  • Noted as being somewhat inaccessible to a general audience due to its abstract narrative.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's artistic merit and the emotional depth of its exploration of relationships. Many commented on the strong performances and the thought-provoking themes, though some found the pacing and unconventional storytelling a bit demanding.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film was shot over a period of two years, with Godard frequently altering the script and shooting schedule based on his collaborators' input and his own evolving philosophical ideas.

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