Summary: After spending years in California, Amir returns to his homeland in Afghanistan to help his old friend Hassan, whose son is in trouble. (imdb)
Moving and interesting story that's brougt to us in a very detailed and enjoyable way. They really did a good job in the way they portrayed the relationships and emotions between all the characters. Although this is a very good movie, it still misses something extra to make this an unforgetable film.
Some critics praise the "plot-driven" quality of this film, but I found the plot contrived, even mechanical. It's a well-made, competent film, but it never soars, as it clearly should, given its main symbol and subject matter. Instead, it sails along a set course toward its unsurprising destination.
A tale of regret and redemption. Stellar acting from the cast, esp the young Hassan. I was moved to tears, right till to the end. One of the best films I've ever caught.
Movie based on an excellent book. And the problem is this. The film can not have the essence of the book, everything happens very fast, although it is a movie well done. Those who do not read the book, might like.
This film has aura, some might even say stench, of Hollywood around it. Same as Slumdog Millionaire has. I missed the authenticity. Marc Forster is a good director, but it seems he was unsure what his vision of the film was, and the ending product seems uncertain, even cheesy. Of course the film has good qualities too, most lifted directly from the book - some smart dialogs, interesting characters (acting isn't always on par with character), difficult themes.
As a reader of this book, I was a huge fan of the way this movie was done. The movie is very close to the book, even including dialog straight from the book.
The first half of the movie or so is simply alright, but when the main character relocates you feel the movie is about to end, but it really just kicks up a notch. That last half was amazing and very moving. All was setup up wonderfully by the beginning.
Had some really touching scenes and overall I enjoyed it. But there were still far too many cringe-inducing scenes, and every time someone grabbed hold of a kite, I wanted to shut my eyes. CGI absurdity.
In tone, pacing and moral reminded me of Shawshank Redemption (in the best possible way). While some elements were cliche, it was all done with such skill and understatement that they almost never felt obtrusive (with a minor exception of the 'villain' at the end). Powerful and resonant, with great performances all around, and best of all, a universal story told with cultural specificity.
It was one of those movies that I'd see if someone paid but I won't rent or download it. But it was above average and although some of it was predictable, it still told the story well and had some emotion in it. Mild recommendation.