Review of The Promise (2017) by Refinedinsights — 29 Jul 2023

"The Promise" is not just a film; it is a cinematic cry for justice, a poignant masterpiece that delves deep into the crevices of world history, shedding light on the grim reality of humanity's darker side. It is a triumphant and yet tragic portrayal of the human spirit enduring against overwhelming adversities.

The plot unfolds amidst the backdrop of the Armenian Genocide, a chapter in history often forgotten or deliberately overlooked. The film strikes at the heart of an inconvenient truth - governments, at times, choose to turn a blind eye towards mass atrocities when it suits their interests, a fact disturbingly prevalent even in today's geopolitical scene. "The Promise" endeavors to challenge this notion, asking viewers to never forget and always strive for the truth.

As Theodore Roosevelt once said about the Armenian Genocide, "the failure to act against Turkey is to condone it... the failure to deal radically with the Turkish horror means that all talk of guaranteeing the future peace of the world is mischievous nonsense." "The Promise" brings this quote to life, posing a vivid and painful exploration of what happens when countries fail to act in the face of cruelty. It urges us to remember that mercy to the guilty often means cruelty to the innocent.

Oscar Isaac delivers a performance of a lifetime, brilliantly portraying the intricate nuances of his character, Mikael Boghosian, a man caught in the whirlwind of human chaos and violence. His emotive performance is nuanced and richly textured, creating an intricate tapestry of a man attempting to hold on to his humanity amidst unimaginable horror. Isaac's ability to capture the depth of his character's pain, hope, and determination is nothing short of Oscar-worthy.

"The Promise" is undoubtedly a difficult watch, a potent reminder of an overlooked tragedy, but therein lies its greatness. Its unflinching portrayal of human cruelty and endurance is simultaneously heartbreaking and inspiring. Director Terry George's keen eye for historical detail and character development elevates the film beyond just being a history lesson. It becomes a window into the past, providing us with the much-needed perspective on the human condition during times of war and conflict.

The film's cinematography is impressive, capturing the stark contrasts of life before and during the genocide. It is this juxtaposition - the vibrant, lively towns turned into silent graveyards, the people full of life and promise now facing unspeakable horrors - that makes the film a visually stunning piece of work.

However, "The Promise" is not all about despair. It's also a story of resilience, love, and the indomitable spirit of humanity that refuses to be defeated. It reminds us that in the midst of the most horrific circumstances, the human spirit can still strive for hope, love, and ultimately, survival.

In summary, "The Promise" is an essential watch - a testament to the past, a reminder for the present, and a warning for the future. It drives home the message that in the face of atrocity, silence is complicity, and forgetting history often means repeating it. Isaac's performance is a triumph, an essential piece in this cinematic puzzle that brings to life a historical moment that should never be forgotten. This film is not just a promise to remember but a plea to act and prevent history from repeating itself.