Lilting

ağdalı. çok ağdalı. aşırı ağdalı.

Having so much of the communication occur through an interpreter has this really compelling and fascinating effect on conversations that makes me want to see more films that use such a device. Beyond that, the film does have some sweet and funny moments, but is laced in sentiment. It all just lacks any real teeth, all discomfort and emotional suspense is short-lasting either being sent off-screen, met with understanding, or posing little threat due to how sweet and good-natured the film is.

Lovely little film about grief and the attempt to connect with someone with whom one only has one thing in common. Fine work by Whishaw, Yang, Leung and Bowles, and a wonderful, moving turn by Cheng in what could in lesser hands have been a rather cliched role. It feels like a filmed play at times (it isn't), but it's an impressive, if modest, debut feature.

Understated and gentle film, about the difficulties of communicating across language and cultural barriers.