Review of Ararat (2002) by Refinedinsights — 11 Aug 2023

Ararat, offers a complex and multi-layered examination of a critical period in history, with well-prepared depictions of Ottoman oppression, the Armenian Genocide, and the brave freedom fighters of the time. The film's historical scenes are indeed its strength, providing insightful glimpses into events that were horrifying but well depicted; the Young Turks were the group that inspired the nazis, and seeing them portrayed in this light was justifiable.

However, Egoyan's ambitious narrative approach does lead to some complications. The intertwining story of a film premiere and a dysfunctional family tends to stray from the main subject, creating a tangled plot that doesn't always serve the characters or the central theme well. This choice is particularly puzzling considering that portrayals of Armenians in Hollywood are often unjustifiably unfavorable. It's a curious decision for Egoyan to add to this narrative, even though his directorial skill and good intentions are evident throughout the film.

Despite these shortcomings, "Ararat" is a decent watch for those interested in the historical context it explores. The film's strong commitment to historical accuracy and powerful scenes of Armenian resilience elevate it above its narrative flaws.

While "Ararat" may not fully succeed in its storytelling, its earnest efforts to shed light on a dark chapter of history and its well-crafted historical sequences make it a film worth considering.