Here Movie Review

A poignant film that explores the lives of generations who inhabit a single house. Set entirely within the drawing room, the film paints an intimate portrait of how a home becomes a silent observer to the joys, sorrows, and dreams of its residents.

A Nostalgic Reunion: This film marks the reunion of the iconic team behind Forrest Gump – Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, and director Robert Zemeckis. After 30 years, they collaborate once again to deliver a powerful story about the passage of time and the human condition.

Living in the Present: “Here” serves as a moving love letter to life’s fleeting moments. The film reminds us of the John Lennon quote, “Life happens while you’re busy making other plans.” It gently nudges viewers to cherish the present (“Here” in the title) rather than getting lost in planning for the future. The narrative emphasizes how every beginning contains the seeds of an ending, and vice versa, creating a cyclical flow of life within the home.

A Unique Storytelling Technique: The screenplay, co-written by Zemeckis and Eric Roth (adapted from a graphic novel by Richard McGuire), employs a captivating technique. The camera remains fixed in the drawing room, witnessing the passage of time as days turn into years, decades, and eventually, a century. The constant elements become the central characters – the couch, the window overlooking the colonial mansion, the fireplace, and the ever-evolving television set. While the inhabitants change – moving out, passing away – their shared desire for a better life remains a constant thread.

A Look Inward: The film encourages introspection. As we witness the lives unfold before us, we are prompted to examine our own choices and the passage of time in our lives. Often, we get caught up in chasing personal and professional milestones, neglecting the importance of the journey itself. Here reminds us to savor the process of living.

A Family Story with Universal Themes: Tom Hanks portrays Richard, a young man living with his parents (played by Paul Bettany and Kelly Reilly) and his wife Margaret (Robin Wright). They dream of building their own home, but life takes them on a different path. The film weaves through past and present moments, placing us as silent observers to their hopes, dreams, and regrets. Their struggles resonate with a universal theme – the heartache of watching years slip away, and the dreams we sacrifice for practicality.

Technically Sound with Captivating Performances: The film’s de-aging technology is impressive, seamlessly portraying the passage of time. The technical aspects are flawless, but the true strength lies in the storytelling and its deeper message. While unconventional with its non-linear narrative, “Here” is a game-changer in visual storytelling. It is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating.

• Unique Storytelling Technique: The film’s static camera perspective, focusing on a single room through centuries, offers a fresh and thought-provoking approach to storytelling.
• Emotional Depth: The film explores universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, evoking a wide range of emotions in the audience.
• Strong Performances: The talented cast delivers compelling performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
• Visually Stunning: The film’s visuals, particularly the seamless transitions between different time periods, are impressive and visually captivating.
• Thought-Provoking: The film encourages viewers to reflect on their own lives and appreciate the present moment.

If you’re looking for a film that will make you contemplate life, love, and the fleeting nature of time, then “Here” is a must-watch.

Plus Points of the Movie “Here”

Unique Storytelling Technique: The film’s static camera perspective, focusing on a single room through centuries, offers a fresh and thought-provoking approach to storytelling. Emotional Depth: The film explores universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, evoking a wide range of emotions in the audience. Strong Performances: The talented cast delivers compelling performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. Visually Stunning: The film’s visuals, particularly the seamless transitions between different time periods, are impressive and visually captivating. Thought-Provoking: The film encourages viewers to reflect on their own lives and appreciate the present moment.

Minus Points of the Movie “Here”

Pacing Issues: Some viewers have criticized the film’s pacing, feeling that it can be slow and meandering at times.

Emotional Detachment: While the film aims to evoke strong emotions, some viewers have found it difficult to connect with the characters and their stories.

Lack of Clear Narrative Arc: The film’s non-linear structure can make it challenging to follow a traditional narrative arc, potentially leaving some viewers feeling disoriented.

Mixed Critical Reception: The film has received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its unique approach and others criticizing its lack of emotional impact.