Review of La Promesse (1996) by Tibor B — 29 Mar 2009
The first major film by the Belgian Dardennes brothers, this adopts their trademark realist style dealing with very human stories within the working class of the city of Liege. Here we follow a young teen Igor, whose father accomodates illegal immigrants and exploits them for cheap labour.
When one of the African immigrants dies in a buidling site accident his dying words to Iogor are to take care of his wife and baby. The film follows as Igor has to make difficult moral decisions, torn between loyalty for his dad and the promise he kept.
The script is full of complexity and subtlety and there are great acting performances. Powerful drama with a strong social message as well.
This review of La Promesse (1996) was written by Tibor B on 29 Mar 2009.
La Promesse has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
