10th May, 2017.
Hmm …
Do you ever the get the feeling I … umm … like watching a film or two … ?
You don’t … ?
You’ve not been paying attention, have you … ?
But let me just emphasise the point, here.
I like watching films.
TV, as well: and listening to music.
Brian Eno’s Discreet Music, in case you’re wondering.
I’m in that kind of mood.
I’ve ALSO been in the mood — having a quiet night in — to catch a film.
You’re looking at the poster, aren’t you … ?
You’d be right …
~≈Ë≈~
Set in Tehran, during the Iran-Iraq War, Under the Shadow introduces us to Shideh (Narges Rashidi), a former medical student desperate to continue her training: but barred from doing so, as a result of her political activities during the Iranian Revolution.
Barred, and depressed?
She heads home: only to find her husband, Irej, is leaving her and their daughter, Dorsa …
He’s a doctor: one who’s been conscripted and placed on the front line.
If that’s not enough … ?
The Iraqi missile that lands on the roof doesn’t exactly look reassuring …
~≈Ë≈~
Now …
Was I impressed?
Or was that “Not Bad,” comment in the title telling you something … ?
Well …
I got interested in seeing Under the Shadow as a result of Mark Kermode’s review on the BBC news channel.
I’ve usually found him a reliable guide to a good, or bad, movie.
He’s rated a few I’ve seen …
And spoke well of this film.
Personally?
I think I can only agree with him … up to a certain extent.
Yes: Under the Shadow is a watchable film.
But feel setting it during a war was something that didn’t add to the fright factor: at least for me. Despite knowing the Civil War setting was something that worked both for Pan’s Labyrinth and The Devil’s Backbone.
Given that? And the fact I feel it may be just a touch too derivative of The Babadook?
Well …
I liked Under the Shadow. It’s not bad: just not high on the list of films I tell you you have to go and see.
Under the Shadow.
★☆☆☆
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