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Yes, this feels a bit glib. The issue is important, but the answers aren't quite this easy. Even more frustrating is the way emotions spiral all over the place, unevenly mixing comedy, tragedy and sentimentality. Both Farrell and Robbie deliver committed, charming performances, and there are several enjoyably starry supporting roles. But everything about the film feels artificial rather than magical, especially as it contrives to simplify some very big issues.

themes, language

4.Jan.26

Sibling issues and family loyalties feed into each of these vicious encounters, which are packed with rules and quirks, incessant voiceovers, impressive worldbuilding and extended sideroads. Backstories within backstories make this feel like several movies strung together, as if we're binge-watching a series. The way the narrative spirals off in different directions is bafflingly complex, with dozens of characters and a vast mythology. But it's also visually dazzling with several big emotional kicks along the way to a cliffhanger ending. And the punchy theme is summed up when Shinobu says, "It's not whether I can do it. I have to."

themes, violence

10.Jan.26

Survival is very tough on this remote island. No one else lives here, and they are reliant on passing ships for supplies. And the environment isn't friendly either, with packs of ravenous wild dogs and pigs that were abandoned by sailors over the years. Still, it's the clashes between these nine neighbours that lead to disagreements, theft and even murder. Indeed, this is a seriously sordid story that spirals into some extreme nastiness.

The problem is that the film never balances the misery and ugliness with anything else, depicting the worst human impulses while only rarely observing any good ones. Still, the actors gamely attack their roles, creating colourful figures who feel much more complicated than the screenplay implies. Sweeney is particularly notable as the likeable Margaret, who endures a seriously nightmarish childbirth set-piece. This could have been a provocative exploration of the desire to escape to a seemingly idyllic life. But it ends up merely being another comment on how difficult it is to escape awful neighbours.

themes, language, violence, sexuality

29.Dec.25

All of this is plainly ridiculous, as the script piles one dopey detail on top of another, including every narrative cliche in the textbook. But there's something warmly involving about watching a movie that's this predictable. And the actors are clearly having a great time, most notably these four powerhouse women who win us over immediately with their emotive backstories and delicious cuisine. Yes, there could have been much more on-screen food porn in this movie. But it's also a lovely little story about a chosen family, and a sweet ode to those fabulous flavours we will always remember from childhood.

themes, language

11.Dec.25