Review of The Immigrant (2013) by Mark James A — 16 Jul 2015

The things you do to survive.

In 1921 two Polish sisters arrive on Ellis Island only to be split. A rumor has circulated that one sister partook in sexual activities on the boat while the other has become sick with tuberculosis. One sister is sent to the hospital and the other is sent to a line to possibly be deported back to Poland. The girl is "saved" by a man who takes pity on her. She quickly discovers she has not been saved when she discovers she has been taken to a brothel of sorts and may be required to partake in sexual activities for money.

"You don't like money?".

"I like money. I just don't like you.".

James Gray, director of We Own the Night, Two Lovers, The Yards, Little Odessa, and the upcoming The Lost City of Z, delivers The Immigrant. The storyline for this picture is very entertaining and well done. I thoroughly enjoyed this film and how it unfolds. The acting is also very good and better than you may anticipate. The cast includes Joaquin Phoenix, Jeremy Renner, Marion Cotilland, and Jicky Schnee.

"I am learning the power of forgiveness.".

I just came across this picture while scrolling through Joaquin Phoenix films on Netflix and decided to add it to my queue. I had not heard much about this, but I can tell you this is well done and I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I strongly recommend seeing this underrated film.

"If you could lick my heart you'd taste nothing but poison.".

Grade: B+.