Urban Existence: Uncertainty, Longing in Haunting Landscape

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MOVIE REVIEW
Hellhole
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Bas Devos
Writer(s): Bas Devos
Cast: Alba Rohrwacher, Willy Thomas, Hamza Belarbi, Lubna Azabal
Language: French, English, Italian, Dutch, and Arabic with English subtitles
Where To Watch: premieres on Film Movement Plus here, www.filmmovementplus.com on August 11, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: Welcome to Brussels, a city once bursting with political fervor but now shattered by the harrowing terrorist attacks 2016. Here lies the setting for Bas Devos's ambitious venture, HELLHOLE. But don't be fooled by the name; this is more than just a tale of a terror-stricken city. It's an intimate tale of three unique characters, an artistic exploration of connection, and a visual journey beyond the conventional filmgoing experience.

Dive into the troubled world of Wannes, portrayed with raw emotional power by Willy Thomas. He's a Flemish doctor grappling with the ghostly memories of his son's military deployment. Next, Mehdi a complex character brought to life by Hamza Belarbi. His simple family request spirals into a chaotic journey, embodying the multicultural maze that is Brussels. And let's not forget Alba, masterfully played by Alba Rohrwacher, whose unraveling under professional pressures reveals a universal human struggle.

Now, grab your moviegoer's guide, and let's dissect the essence of HELLHOLE. The film is not just about individual struggles; it explores themes of isolation and a relentless pursuit of connection, painting Brussels as a haunting spectral terrain. Devos's skilled orchestration with cinematographer Nicolas Karakatsanis transforms the bustling city into a landscape filled with wandering, disconnected phantoms, showcasing the art of mise-en-scène in all its glory.

One of HELLHOLE's standout features is how it takes on the very fabric of communication. The dialogues are more than words on a script, whether through hushed whispers or resonant silences. They're the echoes of despair, the cries for connection that pervade the dimly lit streets of Brussels. The journey from an initial whimsical concept to the harrowing depiction of hell adds unexpected layers, making this film more relatable even for those who've never set foot in Brussels.

HELLHOLE challenges the moviegoer's intellect, delving into weighty subjects like global unrest, immigration, and societal identity without drowning in clichés. It beckons viewers to reflect, analyze, and engage rather than simply sit back and consume.

HELLHOLE is an intellectual expedition offering an insightful glimpse into urban existence marked by uncertainty and longing. While it may stumble in places, its blend of stirring visuals and stimulating themes makes it a notable addition to contemporary cinema. Its value lies in the reflections it ignites, encouraging empathy and understanding even in the bleakest moments. It's not just a film to watch; it's an experience that lingers well beyond the last flicker on the screen.

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[photo courtesy of FILM MOVEMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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