Review of Son of Saul (2015) by Margarita S — 30 Nov 2016

This is a tough one to rate. On the one hand, it is exceptionally filmed - the close ups, the whispers, the blurred periphery. We as viewers are siloed along with Saul, as we follow him throughout the camp.

Its realism is horrible and will leave you numb. I interpreted it less about Saul's attempt to cling to some form of humanity than his heartbreaking descent into madness. At times, Saul's decisions drive me crazy and I love that it forces me to examine (and re-examine) my reactions.

The storyline is intriguing though ultimately thin. What this means is that as the film progresses, the scenes start to feel forced to keep the narrative moving. The ending is not only quite predictable; its tone doesn't fit.

The director opted for an arty styled full circle conclusion that contrasted with the more documentary-like harshness of the rest of the film.