An Albanian family is torn apart by a murder, resulting in a blood feud that finds Nik becoming the prime target and his sister, Rudina, forced to leave school in order to take over the family business.
Even if it lacks a stand-out turn it’s still a grippingly authentic slice of life.
The strong, naturalistic performances by the cast of non-professional actors, along with the handsome painterly composition of many of the scenes, ought to guarantee a fair degree of audience appeal.
Sticks with you, even though the ending is not entirely satisfying.
Sensitive and claustrophobic.
Film of the week by a long chalk is Joshua Marston's sombre and gripping drama of family honour.
The film has an earthy whiff of authenticity. But it's seriously lacking in incident and dramatic drive. Admirable work by British cinematographer Rob Hardy, though.
Marston keeps what could have been a high-octane drama at a low peep, making the changes in Nik's life seem all the more shattering.
Marston’s film is quietly angry without being preachy, although the emotional pay-off isn’t quite as strong as it was in Maria Full of Grace. Nevertheless, his use of non-professional Albanian actors and his loose, documentary style gives the film an air of authenticity that helps it remain engaging.
Glasgow Film Theatre, Glasgow from Friday August 17, 2012, until Thursday August 23, 2012. More info: http://www.glasgowfilm.org/theatre/
Dundee Contemporary Arts, Dundee from Friday August 24, 2012, until Thursday August 30, 2012. More info: www.dca.org.uk
Edinburgh Filmhouse, Edinburgh from Tuesday September 4, 2012, until Thursday September 6, 2012. More info: www.filmhousecinema.com
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