A mother's last wishes send twins Jeanne and Simon on a journey to Middle East in search of their tangled roots. Adapted from Wajdi Mouawad's acclaimed play, Incendies tells the powerful and moving tale of two young adults' voyage to the core of deep-rooted hatred, never-ending wars and enduring love.
The result is a film with a powerful anti-war message that shows rather than tells and end sup being all the more vivid for that.
Expertly shifting between present and past , writer-director Denis Villeneuve displays an impressive command of his material, patiently building up to an emotionally explosive climax.
A thriller that twists and turns with an understated power that will have you gripping the arm of your seat. Terrific stuff.
Emotionally tough, compelling and visceral.
Elemental and expertly directed, Nawal’s story haunts long after the credits have rolled.
Incendies is no one’s idea of a joyful ride, but it’s a remarkable work, and its complex story etches itself on the memory.
It is not really believable, and yet if it is not taken literally, but as a cinematic prose-poem, it has undoubted force.
Once you're out of the film and unpicking the network of fate and coincidence, it may seem rather incredible; but while it's happening you can't tear your eyes from it.
Absorbing throughout, Incendies has the feel of a Greek tragedy until a conclusion that stretches credibility to breaking point.
Denis Villeneuve's remarkable Oscar-nominated family drama.
From its arresting opening to its shattering conclusion, the Canadian film Incendies is muscular, emotional film-making of the highest order, self-confident in its delivery yet always respectful of its characters' plight.
It's a furrow-browed epic concerning the repercussions of war – and it happens to boast some fabulous cinematography, too.
Incendies: Universal tragedy with fire in its heart
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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