Review of Au Revoir les Enfants (1987) by Niloo R — 15 Oct 2013

A simple, beautiful film. it feels effortless, like a real window in someone's actual life, but is so meticulously structured. not a word or image is out of place or wasted. the plot develops so subtly and reaches a poignant and heart-wrenching climax.

the relationship between the two children is so organically and authentically developed, not with grand gestures, but with small, simple moments that emulate real life. this film is so unbelievably real - every aspect is so well-developed: the world and even the most trivial characters have been crafted with the utmost attention and detail.

because they are so well-developed, they speak for themselves - the film doesn't need to do anything to bring them forward. I was enraptured with this film, and believed 100% in the authenticity of it's world.

I grew to care deeply for these characters and found myself almost unable to deal with the film's ending. the ending is so subtle, but so powerful, because there was so much time allotted to developing the characters and their relationships.

this is a brilliant work of art and an outstanding film. it transcends culture and genre, and operates at a universal level, revealing truths about humanity with simplicity, beauty and elegance.