Review of Widows (2018) by Sofia V — 29 Nov 2018

Widows is an expertly made heist thriller that shows that a genre film can be razor sharp, intelligent and still excite. This is due to the hand of the great Steve McQueen whose previous films (including 12 Years a Slave) have all been excellent.

His films are widely cinematic and also deeply personal. Widows is no different. Not a single frame is wasted, each shot is meticulous and necessary. Fortunately the story holds up too. A group of criminals in Chicago are killed in a job gone wrong.

Their widows step in and undertake a new job to pay a debt owed by their late husbands. The lead widow, so to speak, is played by the spectacular Viola Davis whose performance is a powerhouse. The other leading women are also excellent in a film that is a showcase for female onscreen talent.

The film deals with grief, alliances and life choices. It also makes comments on race relations and corruption in modern day America. As for the heist it's more of why film rather than a how. It doesn't get bogged down in minute details about the heist.

The film is more concerned with the characters and their motivations. There are some expertly constructed action sequences involved but don't expect a thrill a minute action film. It's a highly engrossing film that engages on many satisfying levels.