Review of The Past (2013) by Foxgrove — 20 Dec 2013
Asghar Farhadi's earlier film 'A Separation' was taut and dazzling with an exceptionally intricate and mesmerising screenplay. It actually played more like a thriller than a small drama. The Past seems to be trying to replicate the formula, but for the most part it fails.
In actuality it is a well acted but fairly ordinary film which only really comes alive in the last section when the true catalogue of events is finally revealed. Here the movie adopts 'A Separation's' bravura style and becomes more interesting.
The shame is that by only half heartedly emulating the earlier film this one, by comparison, ends up being bland. Whereas 'A Separation' soared from beginning to end, The Past only flutters AT the end.
Of the afore mentioned performances Tahar Rahim is the best as Berenice Bejo's boyfriend.
This review of The Past (2013) was written by Foxgrove on 20 Dec 2013.
The Past has generally received very positive reviews.
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