Visual Storytelling at Its Most Compelling

Read Time:3 Minute, 18 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Sisters (Māsas)
–

Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 44m
Director(s): Linda Olte
Writer(s): Linda Olte
Cast: Emma Skirmante, Gerda Aljena, Katrina Kreslina, Iveta Pole, Belle Alexandras, Elita Klavina, Victoria Mayers-Gray
Language: Latvian with English Subtitles, English
Where To Watch: making its North American premiere on SVOD service IndiePix Unlimited on Amazon Channels and via Virtual Cinema on December 1, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: Linda Olte's SISTERS is a heart-wrenching exploration of resilience and belonging against Latvia's war-torn backdrop. This compelling drama pulls us into the lives of Anastasija (Emma Skirmante) and Diana (Gerda Aljena,) two sisters on the brink of life-altering moments. Olte weaves a narrative that's both deeply personal and resonant with universal themes, making SISTERS a film that doesn't just tug at your heartstrings but also stirs your soul. This is one of those films that even if you didn’t read the subtitles or understand Latvian, you could still understand and appreciate the story you’re seeing; it’s a visual journey as much as anything.

In SISTERS, Olte delivers a narrative that intricately maps the emotional landscape of its central characters, Anastasija and Diana. The story hinges on Anastasija's search for identity, which becomes more poignant when contrasted with her trying to understand her family history, highlighting her lack of connections. Olte's directorial eye paints each character with a palette of nuanced emotions, sidestepping the trap of one-dimensional portrayals. This depth is particularly notable in depicting the American adoptive family as complex individuals, adding layers to the film's narrative fabric.

The plot of SISTERS elegantly intertwines personal struggles with broader societal issues. Olte delves into the complex dynamics of adoption, presenting it as both a hopeful opportunity and a path fraught with challenges and limitations. This exploration transcends the confines of the orphanage, touching upon universal themes of social apathy and the scarcity of authentic support for the marginalized like Anastasija.

Visual storytelling in SISTERS, by cinematographer Aleksandrs Grebņevs, showcases cinema's capacity to reflect the vibrancy and stillness of life. Grebņevs' camera work syncs perfectly with the narrative's pulse, capturing the raw energy and quiet moments of Anastasija’s life journey, drawing viewers deeper into the unfolding story. Sometimes, saying nothing screams louder than any words could.

SISTERS doesn’t tie up the story with a nice, pretty bow, and instead, Olte opts for an open-ended finale that mirrors life's unpredictability. This choice is a tribute to the human spirit, acknowledging life's intricate tapestry of experiences and emotions. You get to fill in the blanks, and while this can be a dangerous road to go down, it’s done with such heart and finesse here.

Olte's debut feature is a testament to her grasp of narrative and visual storytelling. Her ability to craft a film that resonates across emotional, social, and visual dimensions is noteworthy. SISTERS portrays life's trials and triumphs, appealing to a broad audience.

SISTERS is a film that goes beyond mere storytelling. It invites audiences into a world where morals are blurred, and life's ambiguities are embraced. The film lingers in your thoughts, sparking contemplation long after watching it. Olte, in her first feature film, has unquestionably set a high benchmark in capturing the essence of raw, unfiltered human experiences, ensuring that SISTERS will be remembered as a significant work in contemporary cinema.

For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of INDIEPIX FILMS]