In the Bedroom

Why wasn’t I allowed any insight into the characters’ feelings for the entire first half (until the argument) and I felt like I was in a cold-storage unit the whole time? Why doesn’t Todd Field also tell the story visually rather than relying on the actors and editor for everything? This static, depersonalized style of directing without images doesn’t sit well with me. And given the great subject and actors, that’s disappointing. (08/10/2002)

A very slow and yet incredibly captivating film that impresses primarily with its naturalistic storytelling and the superbly portrayed psychological bond between the main characters. Flawless personal atmosphere and dialogues polished to the last word, but in a way that doesn't get on your nerves. The direction is cold and unobtrusive, literally indifferent in many scenes, Field lets the actors perform and does a great job. Both parts of the film are unbelievably authentic. I dare not say which one is better, but the final moments are justified and the key connection truly exists. A brilliant minimalist work. (09/14/2008)

I have hesitated for a long time with the evaluation, originally I gave four small stars, but they were more for the topic and genre than for the execution. The film is shot without any emotional involvement, it is as cold as a dog's snout. From the cast, I liked the unconventional Tom Wilkinson the most, he convincingly played the father and the avenger, I would say he played it with the most feeling out of all the actors. In the flood of poor crime films, action messes or dull comedies, it is slightly above average, but it would not receive five Oscar nominations from me under any circumstances... Overall impression 60%. (11/25/2007)