In a year of really terrific films, Carmen stands out as one of the most endearing, fresh, and unique stories that has made its way to the screen in 2023.
Set in 1980s Malta, on the historically infused island of Gozo, this tale of a woman doomed for life by the tradition of having to serve to her brother's needs while in his position as a Roman Catholic priest may seem, at first, somber. But when she is released from her servitude by her brother's unexpected death, her life spirit is awakened while discovering the world to which she was denied access for her entire adult life.
The film is filled with whimsy, humor that made me laugh out loud repeatedly, and clever and inspired synchronistic plot elements. It's quirky, it's delightful, it's sweet, and it's a brilliant gem that deserves an audience.
Besides the refreshing story, star Natasha McElhone shines, as she always does, but the way in which she transforms in this film is extraordinary. She plays the lead character with such empathy and conveys a spirit of child-like discovery - as if she was entering the world for the first time. At the same time, she is so believable that when we see her character also being very resourceful and clever, it feels authentic. And besides McElhone, there isn't a flawed performance in the film.
To add to the outstanding performances, the setting of Gozo in the Maltese archipelago is breathtaking. As viewers, we not only discover the traditions of Malta, but also the magnificence of its sweeping and enigmatic landscapes and enchanting towns. Everything comes together giving the audience a magical and uplifting experience. Yet it also reveals archaic and dark practices of the Catholic church from an observational perspective rather than from a judgmental one.
This is a film that I haven't hesitated in the least recommending to everyone I know. It's rare to find such ebullience in such an intelligent script about a woman who finds her voice and place in a world still all too fraught with damaging patriarchal structures. Bravo to writer/director Valerie Buhagiar for sharing a story inspired by her own aunt's challenging circumstances in such a creative and heartfelt way.
Set in 1980s Malta, on the historically infused island of Gozo, this tale of a woman doomed for life by the tradition of having to serve to her brother's needs while in his position as a Roman Catholic priest may seem, at first, somber. But when she is released from her servitude by her brother's unexpected death, her life spirit is awakened while discovering the world to which she was denied access for her entire adult life.
The film is filled with whimsy, humor that made me laugh out loud repeatedly, and clever and inspired synchronistic plot elements. It's quirky, it's delightful, it's sweet, and it's a brilliant gem that deserves an audience.
Besides the refreshing story, star Natasha McElhone shines, as she always does, but the way in which she transforms in this film is extraordinary. She plays the lead character with such empathy and conveys a spirit of child-like discovery - as if she was entering the world for the first time. At the same time, she is so believable that when we see her character also being very resourceful and clever, it feels authentic. And besides McElhone, there isn't a flawed performance in the film.
To add to the outstanding performances, the setting of Gozo in the Maltese archipelago is breathtaking. As viewers, we not only discover the traditions of Malta, but also the magnificence of its sweeping and enigmatic landscapes and enchanting towns. Everything comes together giving the audience a magical and uplifting experience. Yet it also reveals archaic and dark practices of the Catholic church from an observational perspective rather than from a judgmental one.
This is a film that I haven't hesitated in the least recommending to everyone I know. It's rare to find such ebullience in such an intelligent script about a woman who finds her voice and place in a world still all too fraught with damaging patriarchal structures. Bravo to writer/director Valerie Buhagiar for sharing a story inspired by her own aunt's challenging circumstances in such a creative and heartfelt way.
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