Sadly Over-hyped
Far from Perfect, Far from Terrible
Excellent, a Must See
Crappy film
As a Belgian not having much knowledge of the going-on's in Brussels this movie is definitely a must-see. Made by a Moroccan director this movie captures the difficulties of the situations around the suburbs and the representation of its people. Showing mere images can't give you a full context of the things that occur in these places. And although director Adil El Arbi tries to give the immigrants some more personality, the stereotypes never really get neglected. Sometimes the image doesn't tell the whole story.
View MoreComing out of the woodwork to write my first review on here, for a local movie. I am from Belgium but I rarely watch Belgian films. When I do, I rarely like them. But this is an exception. This film, in my opinion is exceptional, at least for Belgian cinema.It's a critical piece about the way people from Maghreb countries are represented in Belgian media. The first scene pulls you in and never lets go. It is enthralling, moving and sometimes painful to watch. This film makes a point, an important point. It doesn't make it subtly, but clearly and I wouldn't have it any other way.I hope people get to view it and leave the cinema with their thoughts provoked and eyes opened.
View MoreIt's a shame this film will probably remain in relative obscurity since it might offer people a different perspective on immigrants in large cities such as Brussels. "Image" centers around Eva, a young reporter making a documentary on the life of immigrants after riots occurred in a poverty-stricken area in Brussels. She meets Lahbib, a young Arab man who's notorious but loved by the people in his neighborhood. Although Lahbib's a tough guy who lives in a rough part of town, the more time they spend together, the more he shows his vulnerable side. This vulnerable side makes you sympathize with Lahbib which seems to be the whole point of the film, to look past first impressions.As Eva gets more involved with Lahbib's life and crosses the documentary's deadline, her boss starts breathing down her neck and a conflict ensues. We get to see how the media mainly focuses on the negative stuff that happens in these communities because that's what's good for ratings, unfortunately.The cinematography beautifully captures Brussels' gritty, urban atmosphere. It's well balanced, containing drama, romance, comedy, great social commentary without feeling preachy and a surprising, unconventional ending. If I had to point out some minor flaws, it would be the overuse of suspenseful music and the lead actress's wooden, sometimes awkward delivery. Other than that it's excellent. Kudos to the directors Adil El Arbi en Bilall Fallah for making an awesome, captivating film!
View MoreI highly recommend it,it has it all !!! Action thriller romance it keeps you sitting at the edge of your seat the whole time. Just absolutely incredible. The acting was incredible, so real, it is such a bold movie really showing how life is and how media manipulates everything. Very daring subject but absolutely amazing, opens your eyes to the reality of today.Amazing what these 2 guys have accomplished on such a tight budget, seriously one of the best movies I have ever seen. I would like to praise Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah for their astonishing, outstanding job on this movie, these guys are going to make it! Can't wait for the next movie !!!
View More