West of Memphis (2012)
92%RT Audience Score: 87%
Awards & Nominations: Nominated for 1 BAFTA Award
1 win & 10 nominations total
Both a sobering look at a true crime story and a scathing indictment of the American justice system, West of Memphis is a real-life horror story told with fury and compassion.
West of Memphis” is like watching a true-crime TV show, but with the added bonus of being a movie that’s both moving and gruesome. It’s a real-life horror story that will leave you stunned and disappointed in the justice system. But hey, at least we have millionaires like Vedder feeling good about themselves for saving innocent people, right? All in all, it’s a weighty expose of human nature that’s commendable in its scope and passion, even if it does have some questionable finger-pointing and an inappropriately celebratory ending.
Production Company(ies)
AMLF The Saul Zaentz Company,
Distributor
Sony Pictures Classics
Release Type
Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
Jonesboro, Arkansas, USA
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for disturbing violent content and some language
Year of Release
2012
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital
-
Aspect ratio:1.85 : 1
-
Runtime:2h 30m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Dec 25, 2012 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Aug 6, 2013
Genre(s)
Documentary
Keyword(s)
West of Memphis, documentary, true crime, Arkansas, Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin, Jessie Misskelley, police investigation, new evidence, wrongful conviction, imprisonment, American justice system, horror story, fury, compassion, R rating, English language, Amy Berg, Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson, Damien Wayne Echols, Lorri Davis, Billy McMillin, box office, gross USA, Sony Pictures Classics, Michael Baden, Jason Baldwin, John Mark Byers, Lorri Davis, Johnny Depp, Julie Ann Doan, reviewed by Tom Long, Tara Brady, Joe Williams, Leah Churner, Moira MacDonald, Ty Burr, Richard Propes, David Harris, Nicholas Bell, Mattie Lucas, Craig Williams, Joseph Walsh, 95% Tomatometer, 117 reviews, 87% audience score, 5,000+ ratings, documentary genre, disturbing violent content, directed by Amy Berg, produced by Amy Berg, Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson, Damien Wayne Echols, Lorri Davis, written by Amy Berg, Billy McMillin, released Dec 25, 2012, limited release, streaming release Aug 6, 2013, distributed by Sony Pictures Classics, Michael Baden starring, Jason Baldwin starring, John Mark Byers starring, Lorri Davis starring, Johnny Depp starring, Julie Ann Doan starring, Fresh Kernels, movie reviews, TV shows, RT podcast, news, showtimes, trending movies, Thor: Love and Thunder, Marvel Movies in Order, Minions: The Rise of Gru, The Sea Beast, Black Bird, in theaters, streaming movies, TV, most popular, A Hijacking, Capernaum, Dolemite Is My Name, The Hunt, Queen & Slim, rent/buy from $2.99, rent/buy from $3.99, critic reviews, audience reviews, horror movies, Netflix series, MCU movies, renewed and cancelled TV shows, 2022 anticipated movies, TV and streaming, worst horror movies of all time, best Netflix series and shows
Worldwide gross: $318,317
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $410,382
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,788
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 44,753
US/Canada gross: $310,154
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $399,858
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,384
US/Canada opening weekend: $13,360
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $17,224
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,565
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Jason Baldwin – Self
John Mark Byers – Self
Lorri Davis – Self
Johnny Depp – Self
Julie Ann Doan – Voice
Director(s)
Amy Berg
Writer(s)
Amy Berg, Billy McMillin
Producer(s)
Amy Berg, Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson, Damien Wayne Echols, Lorri Davis
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
Nominated for 1 BAFTA Award
1 win & 10 nominations total
Academy Awards
All Critics (117) | Top Critics (39) | Fresh (111) | Rotten (6)
It’s not a new story, true, but “West of Memphis” makes it both extremely personal and universally painful.
April 5, 2013 | Rating: B+
Tom Long
Detroit News
TOP CRITIC
The film is so utterly transfixing you won’t believe almost two-and-a-half hours have passed when the final credits roll.
March 29, 2013 | Rating: 5/5
Tara Brady
Irish Times
TOP CRITIC
We feel like we’re watching an overlong true-crime television episode and not a movie.
March 21, 2013 | Rating: 2/4
Joe Williams
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
TOP CRITIC
Moving and gruesome, West of Memphis is an eloquent disquisition on the banality of evil.
March 15, 2013 | Rating: 4/5
Leah Churner
Austin Chronicle
TOP CRITIC
A real-life horror story, made no less shocking by the familiarity of its early scenes.
March 14, 2013 | Rating: 3.5/4
Moira MacDonald
Seattle Times
TOP CRITIC
While the “Paradise Lost” films captured events as they unfolded in the heat of battle, “West of Memphis” has the luxury of at least partial closure.
March 14, 2013 | Rating: 3.5/4
Ty Burr
Boston Globe
TOP CRITIC
I found myself leaving the theater in a stunned silence and amazingly disappointed in a justice system that seemed far more invested in protecting itself.
September 27, 2020 | Rating: 3.5/4.0
Richard Propes
TheIndependentCritic.com
West of Memphis could have made a statement about presumptions and the fallibility of our justice system. Instead, we see millionaires like Vedder feeling good about themselves for saving three innocent people.
November 19, 2019 | Rating: 3/5
David Harris
Spectrum Culture
West of Memphis is a weighty expose of human nature, and Berg proves herself once again to be a master of her craft.
August 6, 2019
Nicholas Bell
IONCINEMA.com
A compelling chronicle of true crime, paranoia, and a world where justice no longer holds any meaning.
August 6, 2019 | Rating: 3/4
Mattie Lucas
From the Front Row
Sadly hindered by some questionable finger-pointing and an inappropriately celebratory ending… But West of Memphis is still commendable in its scope and passion.
February 7, 2019 | Rating: 3/5
Craig Williams
CineVue
West of Memphis aims to take a more established and polished cinematic approach to the material, detailing the entire story.
August 23, 2018 | Rating: 3/5
Joseph Walsh
CineVue…
Plot
West of Memphis is a documentary about the fight to stop the state of Arkansas from executing an innocent man, Damien Echols, and the new evidence that came to light surrounding his arrest and conviction for the 1993 murders of three boys in West Memphis, Arkansas.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Johnny Depp is listed in the cast and crew section, but it is not specified what role he played in the film.
Amy-Berg.jpg
92%
Argo (2012)
92%RT Audience Score: 90%
Awards & Nominations: Won 3 Oscars
94 wins & 156 nominations total
Tense, exciting, and often darkly comic, Argo recreates a historical event with vivid attention to detail and finely wrought characters.
Argo is like a rollercoaster ride that you never want to end. Ben Affleck’s direction is so on point that you feel like you’re right there with the characters, sweating bullets and holding your breath. The fact that it’s based on a true story just adds to the excitement. It’s like Ocean’s Eleven meets political espionage, with a dash of Hollywood satire thrown in for good measure. You’ll be on the edge of your seat from start to finish, and when it’s over, you’ll want to ride it again.
Production Company(ies)
Charles Chaplin Productions,
Distributor
Warner Bros. Pictures
Release Type
Streaming, Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
Istanbul, Turkey
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for language and some violent images
Year of Release
2012
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:SDDS Datasat Dolby Digital Dolby Atmos
-
Aspect ratio:2.39 : 1
-
Runtime:2h 0m
-
Language(s):English, Persian, German, Arabic
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Oct 12, 2012 Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Feb 19, 2013
Genre(s)
History/Mystery & thriller
Keyword(s)
starring Ben Affleck, Bryan Cranston, Alan Arkin, John Goodman, Victor Garber, Tate Donovan, Chris Terrio, Grant Heslov, George Clooney, directed by Ben Affleck, written by Chris Terrio, history, mystery, thriller, drama, R-rated, box office gross $136.0M, reviewed by Candice Frederick, Jonathan Robbins, Anthony Quinn, Katey Rich, Kate Muir, Ryan Gilbey, Jason Adams, James Croot, Mike Massie, Richard Propes, Brent McKnight, Yasser Medina, American Sniper, Dallas Buyers Club, Ex Machina, The Martian, American Hustle, Tony Mendez, Jack O’Donnell, Lester Siegel, John Chambers, Ken Taylor, Bob Anders
Worldwide gross: $232,325,503
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $299,519,713
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 503
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 32,663,000
US/Canada gross: $136,025,503
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $175,367,401
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 431
US/Canada opening weekend: $19,458,109
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $25,085,869
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 545
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $44,500,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $57,370,487
Production budget ranking: 706
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $30,894,007
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): $211,255,219
ROI to date (est.): 239%
ROI ranking: 551
Bryan Cranston – Jack O’Donnell
Alan Arkin – Lester Siegel
John Goodman – John Chambers
Victor Garber – Ken Taylor
Tate Donovan – Bob Anders
Director(s)
Ben Affleck
Writer(s)
Chris Terrio
Producer(s)
Grant Heslov, Ben Affleck, George Clooney
Film Festivals
Toronto
Awards & Nominations
Won 3 Oscars
94 wins & 156 nominations total
Academy Awards
Oscar Best Achievement in Editing Winners, Oscar Best Picture Winners, Oscar Best Writing Winners, Oscar Nominees, Oscar Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published Winners, Oscar Winners
All Critics (360) | Top Critics (83) | Fresh (344) | Rotten (16)
Affleck continues to impress audiences with his keen eye for direction, knowing just when to fall back and allow this top-notch cast the freedom to interpret the events in a way that will most compel viewers.
September 7, 2017 | Rating: A
Candice Frederick
Reel Talk Online
TOP CRITIC
Affleck is still building up his chops as a director, but the intelligence and ambition he brings to filmmaking are particularly apparent in Argo.
January 13, 2015
Jonathan Robbins
Film Comment Magazine
TOP CRITIC
The old saw “truth is stranger than fiction” has had its teeth properly sharpened in the superb thriller Argo, a blend of political history and Hollywood hijinks that goes right for the jugular.
January 13, 2015 | Rating: 5/5
Anthony Quinn
Independent (UK)
TOP CRITIC
The emotional catharsis of Argo isn’t what happens onscreen, but the sheer knowledge that the creaky old moviemaking system has put together something this crowd-pleasing and great.
January 13, 2015 | Rating: 5/5
Katey Rich
CinemaBlend
TOP CRITIC
Ben Affleck has delivered a knuckle-muncher of a thriller and a satire on Hollywood, both in one unlikely package.
January 13, 2015 | Rating: 4/5
Kate Muir
Times (UK)
TOP CRITIC
Sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction. And sometimes it isn’t, and it must be bent and twisted out of shape until any authenticity becomes purely theoretical.
January 13, 2015
Ryan Gilbey
New Statesman
TOP CRITIC
Hold your head high, Argo. But, well, not too high. High-ish.
July 2, 2021
Jason Adams
My New Plaid Pants
Students of history will find plenty to carp about, which does slightly spoil the overall effect, but as a searing slice of entertainment Argo is hard to fault.
December 28, 2020 | Rating: 4/5
James Croot
Stuff.co.nz
The subject matter hasn’t lost any of its edge, especially with the continued bedlam in the Middle East.
December 1, 2020 | Rating: 8/10
Mike Massie
Gone With The Twins
Sometimes, it’s the most absurd ideas that make for the most compelling stories and cinema.
September 2, 2020 | Rating: 4.0/4.0
Richard Propes
TheIndependentCritic.com
After the frame is built, the plan is set in motion, and the tight pace and constant tension zip you along towards one of those finales where, once it’s over, you realize that you’ve been leaning forward and forgot to breathe.
July 9, 2020 | Rating: B
Brent McKnight
The Last Thing I See
Argo is a superb thriller. [Full review in Spanish]
June 25, 2020 | Rating: 7/10
Yasser Medina
Cinemaficionados…
Plot
After Iranian militants stormed and took control of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran in November 1979 taking 56 Americans as hostages, six Americans managed to get away and took refuge in the home of Canadian Ambassador Ken Taylor. After two months of the Canadians putting their lives on the line everyday, the CIA and the US State Department try to come up with a plan to get their people out. Tony Mendez is an “ex filtration” specialist who proposes that they pose as a Canadian film crew scouting locations for a science fiction movie called Argo. Using Hollywood connections, Mendez creates a back story for the movie – ads in Variety, casting calls, inviting he media to a production launch – and then heads off to Iran to lead the six Americans out.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Nothing goofy, funny, or odd is said about the film Argo on Fresh Kernels.
Ben-Affleck.jpg
92%
The Invisible War (2012)
92%RT Audience Score: 84%
Awards & Nominations: Nominated for 1 Oscar
11 wins & 14 nominations total
The Invisible War is a vital and frank expose on sexual assault in the U.S. military, shot by master filmmaker Kirby Dick (This Film is Not Yet Rated).
The Invisible War is a documentary that will make you want to scream, cry, and punch a wall all at the same time. It’s infuriating to see how the US military has failed to protect its own soldiers from sexual assault and rape, and how the victims are often blamed and punished instead of the perpetrators. But despite the heavy subject matter, the film is a must-watch for anyone who cares about justice and human rights. Kirby Dick’s direction is straightforward and effective, and the survivors who share their stories are incredibly brave and inspiring. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s an important one.
Production Company(ies)
Warner Bros., Hawk Films, Peregrine
Distributor
Cinedigm
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
MPAA / Certificate
Not Rated
Year of Release
2012
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:1.78 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 35m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States, France
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Jun 22, 2012 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Nov 20, 2012
Genre(s)
Documentary
Keyword(s)
documentary, sexual assault, U.S military, Kirby Dick, Tanner King Barklow, Amy Ziering, Douglas Blush, English, 2012, limited release, Cinedigm, Amy Ziering, Kirby Dick, Kori Cioca, Ariana Klay, Elle Helmer, Hannah Sewell, reviewed by Charlotte O’Sullivan, Mark Kermode, Geoffrey Macnab, Peter Bradshaw, Nigel Andrews, David Edelstein, Jordan M Smith, Ben Nicholson, Steve Erickson, Sr Rose Pacatte, Stefan Pape, Ken McIntyre, 99% Tomatometer, 72 reviews, 84% audience score, $19.6K box office, MPAA rating, sexual violence, military culture, women in the military, PTSD, suicide, corruption, justice, advocacy, human rights, social justice, feminism, war, trauma, survivors, victims, military justice system, sexual harassment, assault prevention, military recruitment, military propaganda, military training, military leadership, military accountability, military cover-up, military hierarchy, military power dynamics, military trauma, military mental health, military culture shift, military reform, military accountability, military justice reform, military sexual trauma, military sexual trauma coordinator, military sexual trauma treatment, military sexual trauma counseling, military sexual trauma compensation, military sexual trauma hotline, military sexual trauma support, military sexual trauma resources, military sexual trauma awareness, military sexual trauma education, military sexual trauma prevention, military sexual trauma response, military sexual trauma policy, military sexual trauma legislation, military sexual trauma statistics, military sexual trauma research, military sexual trauma advocacy, military sexual trauma activism, military sexual trauma survivors, military sexual trauma victims, military sexual trauma allies, military sexual trauma community, military sexual trauma healing, military sexual trauma recovery, military sexual trauma resilience, military sexual trauma empowerment, military sexual trauma solidarity, military sexual trauma awareness month, military sexual trauma awareness day, military sexual trauma awareness week, military sexual trauma awareness campaign, military sexual trauma awareness ribbon, military sexual trauma awareness pin, military sexual trauma awareness bracelet, military sexual trauma awareness t-shirt, military sexual trauma awareness merchandise
Worldwide gross: $71,968
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $92,783
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 3,033
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 10,118
US/Canada gross: $71,968
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $92,783
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,672
US/Canada opening weekend: $16,500
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $21,272
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,494
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Kirby Dick – Director, Writer
Kori Cioca – Self
Ariana Klay – Self
Elle Helmer – Self
Hannah Sewell – Self
Director(s)
Kirby Dick
Writer(s)
Kirby Dick, Amy Ziering, Douglas Blush
Producer(s)
Tanner King Barklow, Amy Ziering
Film Festivals
Sundance
Awards & Nominations
Nominated for 1 Oscar
11 wins & 14 nominations total
Academy Awards
Oscar Nominees
All Critics (72) | Top Critics (33) | Fresh (71) | Rotten (1)
The Invisible War is as compelling as Silence in the House of God, Alex Gibney’s study of abusive Catholic priests.
March 14, 2014 | Rating: 4/5
Charlotte O’Sullivan
London Evening Standard
TOP CRITIC
Kirby Dick’s typically insightful and compassionate documentary presents a harrowing picture of an epidemic of sexual assault and rape within the US military.
March 9, 2014 | Rating: 4/5
Mark Kermode
Observer (UK)
TOP CRITIC
The film works both as advocacy and as a very moving study of women (and one or two men) whose idealism and patriotism have been utterly shattered.
March 7, 2014 | Rating: 3/5
Geoffrey Macnab
Independent (UK)
TOP CRITIC
What calibre of male personnel is the military attracting? And how will this dysfunction affect its relations with foreign civilian populations? It is a grim picture.
March 6, 2014 | Rating: 4/5
Peter Bradshaw
Guardian
TOP CRITIC
Tears are not hard evidence, but they are hard to resist as anecdotal testimony.
March 6, 2014
Nigel Andrews
Financial Times
TOP CRITIC
I can hardly wait to see which closet Dick will throw open next.
January 7, 2013
David Edelstein
New York Magazine/Vulture
TOP CRITIC
Not just an important film, but one produced at the top of its creators’ craft. It’s a doc of rich emotion and high stakes that, thanks to its intrepid subjects, has a real chance to make a difference in the lives of future US soldiers.
February 9, 2020
Jordan M. Smith
IONCINEMA.com
Although The Invisible War hardly breaks the mould in its execution, it makes for compelling — if appalling — viewing.
March 8, 2019 | Rating: 4/5
Ben Nicholson
CineVue
“The Invisible War” is infuriating, but in a positive way.
February 22, 2018
Steve Erickson
Gay City News
This is a horrifying situation.
August 9, 2017
Sr. Rose Pacatte
National Catholic Reporter
Where this picture is truly triumphant, is within the significance of its very existence. This film simply needs to have been made, and it needs to be seen.
March 10, 2014 | Rating: 4/5
Stefan Pape
HeyUGuys
Directed with straightforward economy, The Invisible War sheds much-needed light on a very dark secret.
March 10, 2014 | Rating: 4/5
Ken McIntyre
Total Film…
Plot
The Invisible War is a documentary that explores the issue of sexual assault within the U.S. military.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
The Fresh Kernels critics consensus for The Invisible War is a “vital and frank expose on sexual assault in the U.S. military, shot by master filmmaker Kirby Dick (This Film is Not Yet Rated).”
Kirby-Dick.jpg
92%
Monsieur Lazhar (2012)
92%RT Audience Score: 86%
Awards & Nominations: Nominated for 1 Oscar
30 wins & 14 nominations total
Monsieur Lahzar is a tender and thoughtful portrait of a man with hidden grief and also a compelling exploration of the teacher-student dynamic.
Monsieur Lazhar” is a heartwarming and thought-provoking film that will make you laugh, cry, and question the world we live in. The reserved yet impulsive personality of Lazhar is a puzzle that slowly unfolds throughout the movie, leaving you wanting more. The performances of the unknown actors are brilliant and add to the moral grandeur and political foundation of the story. It’s a gentle film that teaches without preaching and leaves a searing effect on the audience. You’ll be enveloped in its pace and never want it to end. It’s the kind of special mentorship we’re all lucky to experience once in a lifetime, and this film captures it perfectly.
Production Company(ies)
Chernin Entertainment, TSG Entertainment, Turnpike Films,
Distributor
Music Box Films
Release Type
Streaming, Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
Montréal, Quebec, Canada
MPAA / Certificate
Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material, a disturbing image and brief language
Year of Release
2012
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital
-
Aspect ratio:2.35 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 34m
-
Language(s):French, English, Arabic
-
Country of origin:Canada
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Apr 13, 2012 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Aug 28, 2012
Genre(s)
Drama
Keyword(s)
starring Mohamed Fellag, Sophie Nélisse, Émilien Néron, Danielle Proulx, Brigitte Poupart, Jules Philip, directed by Philippe Falardeau, written by Philippe Falardeau, drama, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Deborah Ross, David Stratton, Jake Wilson, Paul Byrnes, Joe Williams, Bill Goodykoontz, Richard Propes, Mattie Lucas, Kelly Jane Torrance, Steve Erickson, Pat Padua, PG-13, Luc Déry, Kim McCraw, Music Box Films, French (Canada), teacher-student dynamic, multiculturalism, Montreal, Algeria, grief, refugee, classroom, teacher’s tragic death, mature thematic material, brief language, a disturbing image
Worldwide gross: $9,074,711
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $11,699,339
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,919
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 1,275,828
US/Canada gross: $2,009,517
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $2,590,718
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,973
US/Canada opening weekend: $112,190
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $144,638
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,800
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Sophie Nélisse – Alice
Émilien Néron – Simon
Danielle Proulx – Mme Vaillancourt
Brigitte Poupart – Claire Lajoie
Jules Philip – Gaston
Director(s)
Philippe Falardeau
Writer(s)
Philippe Falardeau
Producer(s)
Luc Déry, Kim McCraw
Film Festivals
Sundance
Awards & Nominations
Nominated for 1 Oscar
30 wins & 14 nominations total
Academy Awards
Oscar Nominees
All Critics (119) | Top Critics (52) | Fresh (116) | Rotten (3)
Thoughtful, intelligent, elegant, touching, warm and with some splendid dashes of humour. It almost made me forget myself, which is weird, as well as something of a novelty.
August 31, 2018
Deborah Ross
The Spectator
TOP CRITIC
Phillipe Falardeau, who adapted the play into a screenplay, can’t entirely paper over a few niggling loose ends, but overall this disturbing film is very effective indeed.
September 6, 2012 | Rating: 3.5/5
David Stratton
At the Movies (Australia)
TOP CRITIC
Lazhar is something of a puzzle, and much of the pleasure of Philippe Falardeau’s film lies in the gradual unfolding of his reserved yet impulsive personality.
September 6, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Jake Wilson
The Age (Australia)
TOP CRITIC
Very few films offer a moral grandeur, as well as a political foundation; very few films have such poised and brilliant performances from unknown actors.
September 6, 2012 | Rating: 4/5
Paul Byrnes
Sydney Morning Herald
TOP CRITIC
Although it raises timeless questions about life and loss, and timely ones about mentorship and multiculturalism, “Monsieur Lazhar” would rather teach than preach.
June 1, 2012 | Rating: 3.5/4
Joe Williams
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
TOP CRITIC
A gentle film can still be searing in its effect on an audience, something that “Monsieur Lazhar” proves emphatically.
May 24, 2012 | Rating: 4.5/5
Bill Goodykoontz
Arizona Republic
TOP CRITIC
If anything, Falardeau most calls into question the world and the ways in which we are raising our children.
September 17, 2020 | Rating: 3.5/4.0
Richard Propes
TheIndependentCritic.com
A quietly moving paean to education that pulls no punches in its portrayal of childhood trauma and resilience in the face of darkness.
August 6, 2019 | Rating: 3/4
Mattie Lucas
From the Front Row
[Monsieur Lazhar] is a surprisingly charming, but sad, story of the sort of special mentor we’re all lucky if we meet once in a lifetime.
January 4, 2019 | Rating: 3/4
Kelly Jane Torrance
Washington Examiner
It rarely diverges from the template, but it’s a particularly modest, intelligent and moving film.
August 30, 2018
Steve Erickson
Nashville Scene
[Philippe] Falardeau’s unobtrusive direction, and the restrained performance of Fellag and the child actors, make this a powerful, unsentimental film that doesn’t make you feel like you’re hearing a lecture.
August 30, 2018
Pat Padua
DCist
lowly enveloping you in its pace, this is a film you never want to end.
September 18, 2017
Neely Swanson
Easy Reader (California)…
Plot
After a teacher’s tragic death, a recent emigrant from Algeria takes over a Canadian classroom and forms a bond with his students in Monsieur Lazhar.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Mohamed Fellag gives an outstanding performance in Monsieur Lazhar.
Philippe-Falardeau.jpg
92%
King of Devil’s Island (2011)
92%RT Audience Score: 88%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Scandinavian in the most bleakly satisfying way, King of Devil’s Island satisfies with a richly layered narrative and a typically strong performance from Stellan Skarsgard.
King of Devil’s Island is a movie that will make you feel like you need a hug after watching it. It’s a bleak and haunting journey that will leave you feeling like you’ve been through the wringer. But don’t let that deter you from watching it! The acting is outstanding, and the direction is crisp. It’s a slow-burning drama that will keep you hooked until the very end. Just make sure you have some tissues nearby.
Production Company(ies)
Asghar Farhadi Productions, Dreamlab Films, MPAAPSA Academy Film Fund,
Distributor
NA
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
Estonia
MPAA / Certificate
Not Rated
Year of Release
2010
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:2.35 : 1
-
Runtime:NA
-
Language(s):Norwegian, Swedish
-
Country of origin:France, Norway, Poland
-
Release date:Release Date (Streaming): Jul 18, 2014
Genre(s)
History/Drama
Keyword(s)
King of Devil’s Island, History, Drama, Norwegian, Marius Holst, Karin Julsrud, Eric Schmid, Dennis Magnusson, Stellan Skarsgård, Kristoffer Joner, Ellen Dorrit Petersen, Kimmo Rajala, Benjamin Helstad, Trond Nilssen, box office, budget, reviewed by Xan Brooks, Anton Bitel, David Hughes, Tom Huddleston, Radheyan Simonpillai, Liam Lacey, Brent McKnight, Leigh Paatsch, Patrick Gamble, Sarah Gopaul, Graham Young, Allan Hunter, MPAA rating, rebellion, cruelty, reform school, bleak, layered narrative, strong performance, Scandinavian, hypocrisy, corruption, abuse, grim, gripping, dour, outstanding dramatic performances, slow-burning, satisfying drama, Scum, Papillon
Worldwide gross: $4,360,391
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $5,927,457
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,122
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 646,397
US/Canada gross: $7,615
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $10,352
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,820
US/Canada opening weekend: $1,039
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $1,412
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,856
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NOK 54,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Kristoffer Joner – Husfar
Ellen Dorrit Petersen – Astrid
Kimmo Rajala – Policeman
Benjamin Helstad – Erling, C-19
Trond Nilssen – Olav:C-1
Director(s)
Marius Holst
Writer(s)
Eric Schmid, Dennis Magnusson
Producer(s)
Karin Julsrud
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (49) | Top Critics (21) | Fresh (46) | Rotten (3)
Robust acting and crisp direction eases the old-rope material through to the inevitable conflagration.
June 28, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Xan Brooks
Guardian
TOP CRITIC
beneath the staid, ordered, colour-dulled surfaces of Marius Holst’s King of Devil’s Island lurk various forms of hypocrisy, corruption and abuse, suggesting something very rotten in the (then) state of Norway.
June 28, 2012
Anton Bitel
Little White Lies
TOP CRITIC
A bleakly beautiful, austere film that doesn’t patronise its audience.
June 27, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
David Hughes
Empire Magazine
TOP CRITIC
Rather one-note in its bleakness, and doesn’t have a vast amount to say beyond ‘reform school sucks’.
June 26, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Tom Huddleston
Time Out
TOP CRITIC
March 16, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Radheyan Simonpillai
NOW Toronto
TOP CRITIC
Possibly no one else does “grim” with as much unsparing enthusiasm as the Scandinavians.
March 16, 2012 | Rating: 3/4
Liam Lacey
Globe and Mail
TOP CRITIC
Subtle, nuanced, and delicate.
July 11, 2020 | Rating: B
Brent McKnight
The Last Thing I See
Grim and gripping in equal parts, this unapologetically dour Norwegian drama depicts a notorious sequence of events on the icy prison island of Bastoy in 1915.
April 15, 2020 | Rating: 3/5
Leigh Paatsch
Herald Sun (Australia)
An uncomfortably haunting journey to the breaking point of the human spirit, which, despite its few missteps along the will stay with you long after you leave the cinema.
January 25, 2019 | Rating: 4/5
Patrick Gamble
CineVue
Helstad and Nilssen deliver outstanding dramatic performances.
August 23, 2018
Sarah Gopaul
Digital Journal
It’s a very measured account of how men will accept their fates to a degree, slowly coil up and then spring with anger.
August 2, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Graham Young
Birmingham Post
A slow-burning but satisfying drama that persuasively blends elements of Scum and Papillon.
July 17, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Allan Hunter
The List…
Plot
Based on a true story: Norwegian winter, early 20th century. On the island Bastoy, located in the Oslo fjord live a group of delinquent, young boys aged 11 to 18. The boys daily, sadistic regime is run by the guards and the principal who bestow both mental and physical abuse on them. Instead of the boys being straightened out with education they end up being used as cheap, manual labor. The boys attempt to survive by adapting to their inhumane conditions. One day a new boy, Erling (17), arrives with his own agenda; how to escape from the island. How far is he willing to go in order to get his freedom?
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Stellan Skarsgard delivers a typically strong performance in King of Devil’s Island.
Marius-Holst.jpg
92%
Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey (2011)
92%RT Audience Score: 87%
Awards & Nominations: 8 wins & 8 nominations
Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey is a delightful and heartwarming documentary that sheds light on the man behind the beloved Sesame Street character. While some may dismiss it as a simple cut-and-paste job, the infectious warmth and humanity of Kevin Clash and his creation shine through. The film not only celebrates the art of puppetry but also serves as a universal rallying call for creative people to follow their dreams. It’s a reminder that sometimes, our dreams can take us to places we might only have, well, dreamed of. Elmo like!
Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey is a heartwarming documentary that takes a behind-the-scenes look at the man behind the beloved Sesame Street character. While it may not be the most polished film, it more than makes up for it with its infectious warmth and uplifting message about following your dreams. Plus, who doesn’t love Elmo? This movie is a must-watch for anyone who grew up with Sesame Street or just wants to learn more about the magic of puppetry.
Production Company(ies)
Distributor
Submarine Deluxe
Release Type
Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
MPAA / Certificate
Rated PG for some mild language including a brief drug reference
Year of Release
2012
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Mono
-
Aspect ratio:1.78 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 25m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Oct 21, 2011 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 3, 2012
Genre(s)
Documentary
Keyword(s)
Being Elmo, A Puppeteer’s Journey, Kevin Clash, Whoopi Goldberg, Constance Marks, Philip Shane, Justin Weinstein, Documentary, PG, Box Office, Submarine Deluxe, Corinne LaPook, James J Miller, Reviewed by Tara Brady, Peter Bradshaw, Antonia Quirke, Ashley Clark, Dave Calhoun, Kim Newman, Daniel Green, Kelly Jane Torrance, Kiko Martinez, Sean Burns, Starring Frank Oz, Rosie O’Donnell, Genre, Original Language, English, Release Date, Theaters, Streaming, Runtime, Producer, MPAA Rating, Box Office Performance, Budget, Critic Reviews, Producer Names, Director Names, Writer Names, Audience Score, Tomatometer, Interviews, Sesame Street, Muppet, Elmo, Puppeteer, Narrator, Screenwriter, Distributor, Cast & Crew
Worldwide gross: $310,812
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $400,706
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,796
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 43,698
US/Canada gross: $304,052
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $391,991
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,387
US/Canada opening weekend: $22,963
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $29,604
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,371
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Whoopi Goldberg – Narrator
Constance Marks – Director, Producer
Philip Shane – Screenwriter
Justin Weinstein – Screenwriter
Corinne LaPook – Producer
James J. Miller – Producer
Director(s)
Constance Marks
Writer(s)
Philip Shane, Justin Weinstein
Producer(s)
Constance Marks, Corinne LaPook, James J. Miller
Film Festivals
Sundance, South by Southwest
Awards & Nominations
8 wins & 8 nominations
Academy Awards
All Critics (78) | Top Critics (32) | Fresh (74) | Rotten (4)
More than 100 million Elmo owners can’t be wrong, can they?
April 27, 2012 | Rating: 4/5
Tara Brady
Irish Times
TOP CRITIC
He simply seems to be a good guy who created something that little children love. Fair enough.
April 26, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Peter Bradshaw
Guardian
TOP CRITIC
What a terrific bunch of guys the Muppets/Sesame Street creators are, not just spiritually, but technically.
April 26, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Antonia Quirke
Financial Times
TOP CRITIC
Slight, but an uplifting, universal rallying call for creative people to follow their dreams.
April 26, 2012 | Rating: 4/5
Ashley Clark
Little White Lies
TOP CRITIC
Constance Marks’s film is a simple cut-and-paste job, drawing on new interviews and archive, but what it lacks in refinement it makes up for in infectious warmth.
April 24, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Dave Calhoun
Time Out
TOP CRITIC
A charming, if occasionally surface-deep look at the man behind the fur. Elmo like!
April 23, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Kim Newman
Empire Magazine
TOP CRITIC
Whilst there is bound to be a heavy dose of nostalgia factor attached to any film that deals with childhood characters, there’s enough back-story here to suggest that most will be engaged by Being Elmo.
January 8, 2019 | Rating: 3/5
Daniel Green
CineVue
It’s a humane story about how, sometimes, our dreams can take us to places we might only have, well, dreamed of.
January 4, 2019 | Rating: 3/4
Kelly Jane Torrance
Washington Examiner
Contrary to popular belief, The Muppets wasn’t the best Muppet movie this year. That distinction goes to this 80-minute doc on puppeteer Kevin Clash, who has given voice and life to Sesame Street’s widely popular character Elmo for almost 30 years.
December 31, 2018 | Rating: A-
Kiko Martinez
San Antonio Current
Gives much deserved credit to one of the most famous, and previously least recognizable, performers in television history.
August 23, 2018
Sarah Gopaul
Digital Journal
It’s a reminder of the people who affected our childhood so much and whose art form is being left behind in the age of Pixar and Dreamworks.
September 28, 2017 | Rating: 4/5
Yasmin Shehab
Cairo360
A film without conflict. The movie simply has no time for bad feelings.
May 3, 2015
Sean Burns
Philadelphia Weekly…
Plot
Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey is a documentary about Kevin Clash, the man behind the beloved Sesame Street character Elmo, featuring interviews with Frank Oz, Rosie O’Donnell, and Whoopi Goldberg.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey features interviews with Frank Oz, Rosie O’Donnell, Whoopi Goldberg, and others.
Constance-Marks.jpg
92%
Buck (2011)
92%RT Audience Score: 89%
Awards & Nominations: 10 wins & 12 nominations
Buck is a cinematic masterpiece that captures the essence of the American West and the enigmatic beauty of one man’s life path. The film’s stunning cinematography and carefully observed demonstrations at Buck’s clinics serve as a testament to the director’s skill and the subject’s extraordinary nature. Buck’s story is universal in theme, but its singular style may struggle to find a wide audience. Nevertheless, if you have even a passing interest in horses, you will find yourself smitten with this meditative documentary. Buck is the real deal, and it offers a good-natured amble through one man’s compelling life path that is both insightful and tear-inducing. It is the most satisfying 90 minutes of cinema you will experience in a long time.
Buck is the kind of documentary that makes you want to run out and buy a horse, even if you’ve never ridden one before. It’s a heartwarming and inspiring story about a man who has dedicated his life to understanding and communicating with these majestic animals. The film is beautifully shot, with stunning landscapes and intimate moments that will make you feel like you’re right there with Buck. Whether you’re a horse lover or not, this is a must-see documentary that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. So grab some popcorn and get ready to fall in love with Buck.
Production Company(ies)
Armada Productions,
Distributor
IFC Films
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
Red Bluff, California, USA
MPAA / Certificate
Rated PG for thematic elements, mild language and an injury
Year of Release
2012
-
Color:Color
Black and White -
Sound mix:Dolby Digital
-
Aspect ratio:1.78 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 28m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Jun 17, 2011 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Dec 13, 2011
Genre(s)
Documentary
Keyword(s)
starring Buck Brannaman, directed by Cindy Meehl, written by N/A, documentary, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Chris Norris, Catherine Shoard, Derek Malcolm, Ashley Clark, Eve Barlow, Richard Propes, Felicia Feaster, Mattie Lucas, Kelly Jane Torrance, Alexandra Hayward, Brandy McDonnell, PG, horses, American cowboy, unique communication, unorthodox style, training, novel, The Horse Whisperer, abusive childhood, compassion, insight, punishment, respect, thematic elements, mild language, an injury, English, Julie Goldman, Jun 17, 2011 Limited, Dec 13, 2011, IFC Films, Gary Myers, Bibb Frazier, Betty Staley, Gwynn Turnbull Weaver, Shayne Jackson
Worldwide gross: $4,448,728
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $5,735,409
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,131
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 625,454
US/Canada gross: $4,038,912
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $5,207,064
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,795
US/Canada opening weekend: $67,548
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $87,085
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,990
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
– Gary Myers
– Bibb Frazier
– Betty Staley
– Gwynn Turnbull Weaver
– Shayne Jackson
Director(s)
Cindy Meehl
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
Julie Goldman
Film Festivals
Sundance
Awards & Nominations
10 wins & 12 nominations
Academy Awards
All Critics (105) | Top Critics (38) | Fresh (94) | Rotten (11)
Meehl roots this redemption tale in carefully observed demonstrations at his clinics, even as the gorgeously shot landscape reminds us why stories like this are Hollywood’s very lifeblood
November 7, 2013
Chris Norris
Film Comment Magazine
TOP CRITIC
There’s a whole heap of Americana to wallow in here, but it’s testimony to the director and subject that Buck still trots along at such a lick.
April 27, 2012 | Rating: 4/5
Catherine Shoard
Guardian
TOP CRITIC
An unforgettable film about an extraordinary man.
April 27, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Derek Malcolm
London Evening Standard
TOP CRITIC
Singular in style and impressively reflective of its protagonist’s nature. Universal in theme, but may struggle to find a wide audience.
April 26, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Ashley Clark
Little White Lies
TOP CRITIC
If you have even a passing interest in horses, you may find yourself smitten with this meditative doc.
April 24, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Derek Adams
Time Out
TOP CRITIC
A touching, if occasionally overwrought look at the inspiration behind Robert Redford’s Horse Whisperer.
April 10, 2012 | Rating: 3/5
Eve Barlow
Empire Magazine
TOP CRITIC
How did no one think to make a documentary about this guy before?
September 4, 2020 | Rating: 3.5/4.0
Richard Propes
TheIndependentCritic.com
Buck offers a good-natured amble through one man’s compelling life path.
January 17, 2020
Felicia Feaster
Charleston City Paper
It has a strange and enigmatic beauty, bringing the myth of the American cowboy to startling and compelling life.
August 5, 2019 | Rating: 2.5/4
Mattie Lucas
From the Front Row
No, a young Scarlett Johansson doesn’t make an appearance in Buck, as she did in The Horse Whisperer. But Buck, the man and the movie, are that rare thing, the real deal.
January 8, 2019 | Rating: 3/5
Kelly Jane Torrance
Washington Examiner
This insightful documentary is really quite special, and at times more than a little tear-inducing.
January 8, 2019 | Rating: 4/5
Alexandra Hayward
CineVue
The most satisfying 90 minutes of cinema I’ve experienced in a long time.
August 8, 2018 | Rating: 3.5/4
Brandy McDonnell
The Oklahoman…
Plot
An examination of the life of acclaimed ‘horse whisperer’ Buck Brannaman, who recovered from years of child abuse to become a well-known expert in the interactions between horses and people.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Buck Brannaman, the subject of the documentary, has a unique way of communicating with horses and is known for his unorthodox style of training.
Cindy-Meehl.jpg
92%
Shake Hands with the Devil: The Journey of Romeo Dallaire (2005)
92%RT Audience Score: 91%
Awards & Nominations: 6 wins & 13 nominations
Shake Hands with the Devil: The Journey of Roméo Dallaire is a poignant and thought-provoking documentary that delves into the psyche of a man who witnessed one of the most horrific genocides in history. The film is a testament to the human spirit and the resilience of the human soul in the face of unimaginable evil. The director, Peter Raymont, skillfully weaves together personal interviews, archival footage, and still photographs to create a powerful and moving portrait of a man who was rendered powerless in the face of evil. While some critics have criticized the film for being too one-sided, it is clear that Raymont’s intention was to focus on Dallaire’s personal journey rather than the broader political context of the genocide. Overall, Shake Hands with the Devil is a must-see documentary that will leave you with a deep sense of empathy and compassion for those who have suffered at the hands of human cruelty.
Shake Hands with the Devil: The Journey of Roméo Dallaire is a documentary that follows the journey of a man who witnessed one of the greatest catastrophes of the 20th century and was powerless to stop it. Critics have mixed feelings about the film, with some calling it a flat-lined, pedestrian affair, while others praise it for its personalized, historically charged travelogue. Personally, I think the documentary is a sobering reminder of the atrocities that occurred in Rwanda and the impact it had on one man. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s an important one. Plus, Roméo Dallaire is a total badass.
Production Company(ies)
Norma Productions, Curtleigh Productions, Hecht-Hill-Lancaster Productions,
Distributor
NA
Release Type
Filming Location(s)
Kigali, Rwanda
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for some disturbing violent images and brief strong language
Year of Release
2007
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital
-
Aspect ratio:2.35 : 1
-
Runtime:NA
-
Language(s):English, French
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Sep 12, 2004 Original
Release Date (Streaming): Mar 1, 2005
Genre(s)
Documentary
Keyword(s)
Shake Hands with the Devil, documentary, 1994 Rwanda genocide, Roméo Dallaire, Canadian general, UN peacekeeping force, civil unrest, tragedy, gut-wrenching, painful memories, Peter Raymont, directed by, produced by, box office performance, budget, reviewed by, critic names, producer names, MPAA rating, English, 1h 31m, audience score, top critics, fresh, rotten, tragic reminder, Western conscience, heroic man, powerless, underfunded, undermanned, mental anguish, racism, colonialism, gender roles, African village, false note
Worldwide gross: $594
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $851
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 3,160
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 93
US/Canada gross: $594
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $851
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,838
US/Canada opening weekend: $86
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $123
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,861
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): CA$11,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Peter Raymont – Producer
Director(s)
Peter Raymont
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
6 wins & 13 nominations
Academy Awards
All Critics (50) | Top Critics (22) | Fresh (44) | Rotten (6)
A flat-lined, pedestrian affair, a talking-heads/ touring-heads piece that seems to point the camera in the wrong direction.
September 2, 2005 | Rating: 3/5
Roger Moore
Orlando Sentinel
TOP CRITIC
A personalized, historically charged travelogue that speaks to a massive tragedy’s impact on one man.
September 2, 2005 | Rating: B+
Chris Vognar
Dallas Morning News
TOP CRITIC
A tragic reminder of how that overused epithet, ‘Never again’, makes hypocrites of us all.
August 9, 2005 | Rating: 4/5
Jamie Woolley
BBC.com
TOP CRITIC
In a way, Shake Hands With the Devil puts the best of Western conscience on display — and it’s not a pretty sight.
July 8, 2005 | Rating: B
Robert Denerstein
Denver Rocky Mountain News
TOP CRITIC
We never get a satisfying re-creation of the events for which Dallaire now suffers.
July 8, 2005 | Rating: 2/4
Michael Booth
Denver Post
TOP CRITIC
Offers a rare and privileged portrait of a heroic man profoundly troubled by a terrible experience.
July 1, 2005 | Rating: 3.5/4
Tom Keogh
Seattle Times
TOP CRITIC
Shake Hands with the Devil is a sober, harrowing chronicle of one man’s attempt to escape the guilt and regret of having witnessed one of the greatest catastrophes of the 20th century, and being powerless to stop it.
January 29, 2020
Felicia Feaster
Creative Loafing
Documentary should have been more about what happened in Rwanda rather than just about his personal feelings and his return trip. Very one-side picture of a highly criticized UN official. Paul Chambers, CNN.
December 30, 2009 | Rating: C-
Paul Chambers
CNNRadio
September 29, 2007 | Rating: 88/100
Brian Webster
Apollo Guide
Raymont gets the most out of what little footage and still photographs remain from 1994.
March 1, 2007
Maria Garcia
Film Journal International
You can’t imagine a worse situation, but at the same time it’s hard to imagine that a better man could’ve been on the scene, even if he was rendered powerless in the face of evil.
October 21, 2005 | Rating: B+
Shawn Levy
Oregonian
The documentary is effective, though at times it’s a challenge to watch.
September 23, 2005 | Rating: 3.5/4
Jeff Vice
Deseret News (Salt Lake City)…
Plot
In the end of 1993, the Canadian General Romeo Dallaire is assigned to lead the United Nation troops in Rwanda. In 1994, when the genocide of the Tutsis by the Hutus begins, General Dallaire gives his best effort to help the people in Rwanda, inclusive negotiating with the Tutsi rebels, the Hutu army and the Interhamwe militia. However, he fights against bureaucracy and lack of interest from the United Nations and witnesses the West World ignoring and turning back any sort of support, inclusive USA opposing in the security council of UN to any type of help.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
NA
Peter-Raymont.jpg
92%
Nostalgia for the Light (2011)
92%RT Audience Score: 84%
Awards & Nominations: 9 wins & 20 nominations
Nostalgia for the Light is a cinematic masterpiece that seamlessly weaves together the seemingly disparate worlds of astronomy, archaeology, and human memory. Patricio Guzmán’s contemplative and mesmeric film invites us to ponder the mysteries of the universe and our place within it, while also exploring the painful legacy of Chile’s dark past. With stunning visuals and a haunting score, Nostalgia for the Light is a thought-provoking and deeply moving meditation on the human condition that will leave you with a sense of wonder and awe.
Nostalgia for the Light is a documentary that will make you feel like you’re floating in space while contemplating the mysteries of the universe. It’s a beautiful and thought-provoking film that seamlessly weaves together astronomy, archaeology, and human history. You’ll be left with a sense of wonder and a newfound appreciation for the fragility of life on this planet. Plus, the stunning visuals will make you want to book a trip to the Atacama Desert ASAP. Don’t miss this masterpiece by Patricio Guzmán!
Production Company(ies)
Lama Films, United King Films, Rabinovich Film Fund, Cinema Project
Distributor
NA
Release Type
Filming Location(s)
Atacama Desert, Chile
MPAA / Certificate
Not Rated
Year of Release
2011
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital
-
Aspect ratio:1.85 : 1
-
Runtime:NA
-
Language(s):Spanish, English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Streaming): May 10, 2016
Genre(s)
Documentary
Keyword(s)
documentary, Chile, Atacama Desert, Pinochet, widows, bones, loved ones, Spanish, Patricio Guzmán, Meike Martens, Renate Sachse, Valentina Rodríguez, Verónica Rosselot, reviewed by Tim Robey, Peter Bradshaw, Nigel Andrews, Carmen Gray, Dave Calhoun, David Parkinson, Jordan M Smith, David Harris, Daniel Green, Stuart Klawans, John Powers, Michael Atkinson, produced by Meike Martens, Renate Sachse, directed by Patricio Guzmán, written by Patricio Guzmán, 100% Tomatometer, 84% audience score, rent/buy from $3.99, genre: documentary, MPAA rating: N/A, box office performance: N/A, budget: N/A, reviewed by critics, Patricio Guzmán as director and writer, Valentina Rodríguez starring
Worldwide gross: $410,903
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $540,953
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,717
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 58,992
US/Canada gross: $163,962
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $215,856
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,534
US/Canada opening weekend: $5,664
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $7,457
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,759
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Patricio Guzmán – Director, Writer
Verónica Rosselot – Executive Producer
Meike Martens – Producer
Renate Sachse – Producer
Director(s)
Patricio Guzmán
Writer(s)
Patricio Guzmán
Producer(s)
Meike Martens, Renate Sachse
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
9 wins & 20 nominations
Academy Awards
All Critics (48) | Top Critics (19) | Fresh (48)
A seriously remarkable documentary-essay from the Chilean filmmaker Patricio Guzmn.
July 13, 2012 | Rating: 5/5
Tim Robey
Daily Telegraph (UK)
TOP CRITIC
This is one of the films of the year.
July 12, 2012 | Rating: 5/5
Peter Bradshaw
Guardian
TOP CRITIC
You wait all year for a thought-provoking movie-essay on life, art, science or history. Then in Nostalgia for the Light all four arrive together.
July 12, 2012 | Rating: 4/5
Nigel Andrews
Financial Times
TOP CRITIC
Sticking in the mind, Nostalgia for the Light leaves much food for thought on life’s important questions.
July 12, 2012 | Rating: 4/5
Carmen Gray
Little White Lies
TOP CRITIC
A truly eye-opening experience.
July 10, 2012 | Rating: 5/5
Dave Calhoun
Time Out
TOP CRITIC
A truly insightful art film that still manages to be easy-going and unpretentious.
July 8, 2012 | Rating: 4/5
David Parkinson
Empire Magazine
TOP CRITIC
Nostalgia For The Light is a gorgeously contemplative masterpiece by a supreme filmmaker who’s questions leave us with a sense of wonder and our own new mysteries to ponder.
November 19, 2020 | Rating: 4.5/5
Jordan M. Smith
IONCINEMA.com
Nostalgia for the Light does nothing with bombast.
November 6, 2019 | Rating: 4/5
David Harris
Spectrum Culture
For those who like a bit of auterism to their astronomy, however, Guzmán’s mesmeric Nostalgia for the Light tells us far more about what’s happening/has happened down here that what’s transpiring up there.
January 26, 2019 | Rating: 4/5
Daniel Green
CineVue
[A] gorgeous meditation on astronomy and the collection of human remains.
September 27, 2018
Stuart Klawans
The Nation
An exquisitely shot essay on ultimate things – time, space, memory and how creatures so small and frail as human beings find meaning in a gigantic cosmos.
May 17, 2018
John Powers
NPR’s Fresh Air
Often stark and ravishing, Nostalgia for the Light is most moving as a manifestation of the filmmaker’s stubborn righteousness.
April 18, 2016
Michael Atkinson
In These Times…
Plot
In Chile’s Atacama Desert, widows search for the bones of loved ones left by Pinochet’s atrocities in the documentary “Nostalgia for the Light.”
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Director Patricio Guzmán is also known for his documentaries The Battle of Chile and Salvador Allende.
Patricio-Guzmán.jpg
92%
Beats Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest (2011)
92%RT Audience Score: 90%
Awards & Nominations: NA
This documentary focuses less on the music and more on the personality clashes and in-group tensions to great, compelling effect.
BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE: THE TRAVELS OF A TRIBE CALLED QUEST is a must-watch for any hip-hop fan. This documentary takes you on a journey through the highs and lows of one of the most influential groups in the genre’s history. From their early days in Queens to their eventual breakup, the film captures the essence of A Tribe Called Quest. Plus, who knew Michael Rapaport had it in him to direct such a great documentary? It’s like he’s been practicing his whole life to make this film. So, grab some popcorn, turn up the volume, and get ready to be transported into the world of ATCQ.
Production Company(ies)
Cristaldifilm Les Films, Ariane Rai 3
Distributor
Sony Pictures Classics
Release Type
Filming Location(s)
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for language and some sexual material
Year of Release
2011
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:2.35 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 37m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Jul 8, 2011 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Oct 18, 2011
Genre(s)
Documentary/Music
Keyword(s)
starring Michael Rapaport, directed by Michael Rapaport, written by Michael Rapaport, documentary, music, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Ben Sachs, Roger Moore, Kevin C Johnson, Jennie Punter, Randy Cordova, Adam Graham, Toussaint Egan, Allen Almachar, Glenn Dunks, Chase Whale, Eric Melin, Rob Thomas, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Q-Tip, Jarobi White, Adam Horovitz, Adam Yauch, R-rated, hip-hop, A Tribe Called Quest, conflicts, band members, personality clashes, authorized documentary, Robert Benavides, Debra Koffler, Sony Pictures Classics, English, limited release, streaming, distributor
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Ali Shaheed Muhammad – self
Q-Tip – self
Jarobi White – self
Adam Horovitz – self
Adam Yauch – self
Michael Rapaport – director, writer
Robert Benavides – producer
Debra Koffler – producer
Director(s)
Michael Rapaport
Writer(s)
Michael Rapaport
Producer(s)
Robert Benavides, Debra Koffler
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (61) | Top Critics (29) | Fresh (55) | Rotten (6)
This authorized documentary is more of a celebration of the legendary Queens quartet than a serious exploration of their art. But considering how brilliant they were at their peak, it’s hard to disagree with the general sentiment.
September 15, 2011
Ben Sachs
Chicago Reader
TOP CRITIC
Rapaport gets at the dynamics of a group that struggles even now to get along well enough to get paid – again.
August 9, 2011 | Rating: 3/4
Roger Moore
Orlando Sentinel
TOP CRITIC
Despite accusations of nearly succumbing to spotlighting beefs over beats, the film comes off as an honest representation of a great group that’s not to be forgotten.
August 5, 2011 | Rating: 3/4
Kevin C. Johnson
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
TOP CRITIC
A combination of timing, access, a visual aesthetic that reflects ATCQ’s Afrocentric “surface philosophy” (as the crew’s look is described) and, most importantly, story-conscious editing elevates the doc above the norm.
August 5, 2011 | Rating: 3/4
Jennie Punter
Globe and Mail
TOP CRITIC
Thanks to a particularly even-handed job by director Michael Rapaport, the story emerges as compelling, even for non-fans in the audience.
August 4, 2011 | Rating: 4/5
Randy Cordova
Arizona Republic
TOP CRITIC
The movie gets the beats and rhymes down pat, but the life part is a little messy. Oh well, two out of three ain’t bad.
July 29, 2011 | Rating: B
Adam Graham
Detroit News
TOP CRITIC
A fascinating and revelatory snapshot into the human dynamic behind one of the most versatile and influential hip hop acts to ever grace the mic.
July 7, 2021
Toussaint Egan
Polygon
It shows with close detail the inner troubles of one of the most influential groups in modern hip-hop, and how they all work and strive to remain an important part of that genre’s future.
August 6, 2020 | Rating: A-
Allen Almachar
The MacGuffin
[I]t might have been nice if the documentary had worked a bit harder to find a real internal narrative.
September 8, 2013
Glenn Dunks
Trespass
While it’s uncertain if A Tribe Called Quest will ever get back together and play again, it’s quite certain fans will love and appreciate BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE: THE TRAVELS OF A TRIBE CALLED QUEST as their final encore.
October 2, 2012 | Rating: 4.5/5
Chase Whale
Gordon and the Whale
Rappaport covers a huge spectrum of voices and opinions, and the themes he explores get into personal relationships — something everyone can relate to.
November 4, 2011 | Rating: 3/4
Eric Melin
Scene-Stealers.com
Rapaport, clearly a fan, is able to capture both the ongoing love and the tension within the band.
September 16, 2011 | Rating: 3/4
Rob Thomas
Capital Times (Madison, WI)…
Plot
Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest is a documentary that explores the conflicts and dynamics of the legendary hip-hop group as they struggle to stay together and get paid.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Fresh Kernels doesn’t say anything goofy or funny or odd about the film or its cast.
Michael-Rapaport.jpg