The movie is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to set work, framing, cinematography etc. Every shot of Kidman is framed perfectly to capture this broken character, constantly surrounded by liminal, blank spaces; a woman without purpose or direction following the death of her husband. Her clothes cling to her as if suffocating her, stopping her from breathing and moving on with her life. Visually and audibly this is a treat, the low hum of the bass throughout the soundtrack keeps a theme of unease and dread, keeping us locked into Annas tension and lack of direction. Truly excellent film-making.
With all that said, the story here is very limited and of a shocking, controversial lilt. It's downright weird to see Anna go from completely refusing Sean's proclamation, to straight up saying she's going to groom this child, wait 11 years and marry him. I understand this character is distraught and is being faced with the possibility of reuniting with her dead soul mate, but I don't see how that permits a full grown woman getting in the bath naked with said child and everything being A-OK. I feel there were much more tasteful ways to approach this, but the film gives in to controversy-for-engagement and goes full send with it.
A stunning movie in a visual and audible sense, but a gross, limited dramatic narrative drags it way, way down. I'm intrigued to see other works by Glazer as I definitely liked the composition of this one, but the handling of this storyline was way over the mark.
