Filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania has created an interesting fictional documentary that remains powerful and emotional with strong themes explored, great conversations between the characters and actors and Hania's approach on the realism. Hania had previously made The Man Who Sold His Skin and Beauty and the Dogs which while they aren't perfect, they are ambitious Tunisian movies that are defiantly with a watch. Four Daughters might just be Hania's best work so far.
Hania's direction and approach on the film is perfect as she is able to balance out the setting and themes of the troubles of the Islamic system and it's consequences and affects on the characters. The themes of motherhood, violence, culture and memories are well-explored and the dialogue and commentaries were though-provoking and interesting to observe. Many of the actors that are portraying the characters for the documentary were interesting to observe as each actor brings out the best emotions and complexity of the character situations, setting and personalities without feeling out of place. They all had interesting things to say and many are really likable.
Many of the camerawork is pretty good, the color presentation is beautiful, and the conversations between the actors are well-done. There are some lines and moments that are still burned into my memory because of how well and powerful they were. There wasn't a single boring moment throughout as I was both meant with emotions of laughter, tears and slightly horrified due to the contexts it explored. Having won the L'Oeil d'or award at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, I can see why.
Overall, it's definitely a bit different on the typical documentary approach but I absolutely loved how powerful and emotional the movie is.
Hania's direction and approach on the film is perfect as she is able to balance out the setting and themes of the troubles of the Islamic system and it's consequences and affects on the characters. The themes of motherhood, violence, culture and memories are well-explored and the dialogue and commentaries were though-provoking and interesting to observe. Many of the actors that are portraying the characters for the documentary were interesting to observe as each actor brings out the best emotions and complexity of the character situations, setting and personalities without feeling out of place. They all had interesting things to say and many are really likable.
Many of the camerawork is pretty good, the color presentation is beautiful, and the conversations between the actors are well-done. There are some lines and moments that are still burned into my memory because of how well and powerful they were. There wasn't a single boring moment throughout as I was both meant with emotions of laughter, tears and slightly horrified due to the contexts it explored. Having won the L'Oeil d'or award at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, I can see why.
Overall, it's definitely a bit different on the typical documentary approach but I absolutely loved how powerful and emotional the movie is.