Listen
Listen

Movie spotlight

Listen

2020
Movie
73 min
English

In the outskirts of London, Portuguese couple and parents of three, Bela and Jota, struggle to make ends meet. When a misunderstanding arises at school with their deaf daughter, the British social services grow concerned for the safety of their children. The film portrays the tireless battle of these immigrant parents against the law to keep their family together.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes94%
Metacritic75/100
Google Users85%
Director: Ana Rocha de SousaGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

A Portuguese couple living in London struggles to maintain their family life after their young son begins to show signs of developmental issues. As they navigate the complex social services system, their relationship is tested by suspicion and the constant fear of losing their child. The film explores the challenges of immigration, cultural differences, and the immense pressure placed on parents in such circumstances.

Critical Reception

Listen received critical acclaim for its powerful and emotionally resonant portrayal of a family under immense strain. Reviewers praised its authentic depiction of the immigrant experience and the sensitive handling of its subject matter. The performances, particularly by the lead actors, were widely lauded for their depth and raw emotion, contributing to the film's intense and heartbreaking narrative.

What Reviewers Say

  • A deeply moving and authentic exploration of family, immigration, and the challenges faced by vulnerable families.

  • Features outstanding performances that anchor the film's emotional weight.

  • Highlights the often-overlooked struggles within social services systems.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly praised the film's emotional impact and the strong performances from the cast. Many viewers found the story to be heartbreaking yet relatable, particularly appreciating its sensitive portrayal of a family's struggles. The film's ability to evoke empathy and its realistic depiction of difficult circumstances were frequently mentioned positives.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Golden Globe Award for Best Film at the Marrakech International Film Festival and was nominated for Best Film at the Tokyo International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

Director Ana Rocha de Sousa drew inspiration for the film from personal experiences and observations of immigrant families facing similar challenges in London.

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