The Bestowal

I'd compare it thematically to "Man from Earth" (though that was far better). I have to commend the filmmaker for trying something.

I found it a bit preachy. It touched on ideas that I find distasteful. Still, it challenged me a bit.

It touches on anti-technology, religion, good and bad, self-interest, capitalism, eastern spirituality, commerce, pride of work, homelessness, wealth inequality, justice, afterlife, suicide, "love", punishment and reward, simulation theory, a "God" that is not all-powerful, a vengeful god, heaven and hell, the mutability of facts. Unfortunately the movie makes some presumptions while exploring these ideas, and does not acknowledge all sides of the ideas that it touches on. At some point it becomes an apology for human suffering under an altruistic god, and at a different point it mirrors the Unabomber's view of technology. It's all over the map with its religion, is it hindu? it is christian? is it buddhist?

Frankly, the thing is a mess, most of the mechanisms and drama were contrived, yet I am not unhappy that I watched it. I don't think it is anywhere near a masterpiece, nor do I need to see it again.

Bestowal excels in compelling and profound dialogue writing. Writer and director Andrew de Burgh doesn't shy away from metaphysical topics that are usually avoided at all costs to appeal to a larger audience. He took a risk and it pays off. His uncompromising vision shines through and through and heavy philosophical questions won't linger unanswered. It's a rewarding journey that I can recommend to any film lover that prefers elevating content over mindless explosions.

Where do I start? This movie has so many holes, contradictions, and flaws, it's funny. For example; first she(Death) says I'm not human, than a minute later referring to herself as one of the humans. She later says time is just something created by man, a while later saying she had been around for centuries, but before unable to answer a question regarding a time line because she had no concept for time. Those are just a couple examples that I remember, there were countless, making it hard to respect this movie and the film maker.

The acting is horrific, it's poorly filmed; breaking all the basics rules of how to film properly. Probably had a budget of next to nothing, the movie takes place in one room, with two D list actors.

I am usually the one to see the best in every movie, appreciating it for what it is, but this movie makes it so hard.

The only reason I am giving it 2 starts because I agree with their points on technology, greed, and helping others.

Just my opinion.

This film is a unique dose of philosophical drama. The heart of interest; what is beyond our reality and our understanding of reality? This film was well written/shot/acted. It is definitely a thinker movie!

I started to watch The Bestowal thinking I was in for a slow drag . However, after about the ten minute mark I was truly engaged with the amazing script and very believable characters. This film is very inspirational , thought provoking and ultimately optimistic. Taking into account that the whole film is dialogue based it is amazing how watchable and emotional this experience turned out to be. Overall I would highly recommend The Bestowal to viewers who have a philosophical bent.