4 Months won the Palme d'Or at Cannes. (Image courtesy of VIFF)
First Review: O Chiru4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days - didn't think I'd like it but I did.
To describe 432 as a movie about abortion would not do it justice. There are so many other facets to it: manipulation, gender stereotypes, female submissiveness and female power, friendship, etc, all weaved together in a coherent, subtle way.
There is no message hammered down the viewer's throat, only an (alas!) timeless story.
Acting was superb - I cannot imagine many Hollywood actors/actresses being able to be so convincing in front of the camera for minutes on end, wordlessly and without becoming melodramatic.
There's not one shot that I'd change in this film - even the controversial one(s) carry meaning and add depth to the characters. No soundtrack, use of handheld camera, use of natural light - all these increased the naturalistic feel of this beautiful, harrowing narrative.
Leave your squeamishness and your prejudices at home and go see 432.
