Atlantique

I am too stupid to like this film. It is beautifully shot with wonderful soundscapes however the acting and story line left me out in the cold and bored.

The cinematography is impressive, which confirms in my mind that Claire Mathon was the cinematographer of the year in 2019, with this, "Atlantics," and, better yet, "Portrait of a Lady on Fire." She knows how to compose an image. Unfortunately, there's not much going on otherwise in this critically-overrated picture, but it does benefit from its numerous empty spaces and transitions being filled by lovely imagery. Lots of shots of the sea, along with wind-swept curtains and open windows, mirrors and neon strobe lights. And the eyes of the possessed women are admittedly haunting. The rest of it, however, is a mess, including a narrative that combines a "Ghosts" (1990) like supernatural romance of necrophilia with the problem of arranged marriage, some lackluster drama or social commentary on workers avenging their employer for not being paid and the risks of economically-displaced migration, and, most miserably, a dull detective story investigating a series of arson cases. All of its connected in the slightest and contrived of ways. The plot is best the longer things remain mysterious; once figured out, it's quite disappointing. But, like the central romance, which largely consists of boy telling girl she's beautiful, "Atlantics" is at least nice to look at.

This film takes a sad story, makes it personal, then takes it to a whole other place. This film is for the women who are left behind, beautifully filmed and acted, one of the most original films of the year.

A calm, contemplative, unpredictable, immersive & quietly hypnotising love story perforated with supernatural elements yet firmly rooted in Senegal's social reality, Mati Diop's debut feature is a silent meditation on love, loss, migration, mortality & ghostly interventions that expertly balances the real with the spectral to deliver a cinematic experience that's as ethereal as it is enigmatic.

Winner of the Grand Prix at last year's Cannes Film Festival, Atlantics presents its debutant director employing a methodical approach to realise her deftly layered script on screen and her execution is neat & sophisticated. Also, her serene touch adds a soothing quality to the images, while unhurried pace provides the viewers ample time to acquaint themselves with its world & characters.

However, despite the intriguing premise & interesting social commentary, Atlantics is unable to make us invest in the romance that unfolds at its centre. It's supposed to be the main plot yet feels secondary to other things at play, and the characters aren't as compelling as the world they live in. Nevertheless, for a debut effort, it is a polished piece of subdued storytelling that starts Mati Diop's directorial journey on a promising note.

Nobody told me this was that good. Ok, a lot of people said it was good, but not THAT good.

Some pacing issues on the first act and could have been even more critical of the ones responsible for these situations, but the message is all there. At the same time, a beautiful love story in a very beautiful movie, very well shot (magnificent cinematography) and with great acting from all the actors. I really liked the atmosphere and the very African feeling in terms of traditions and beliefs.