The Secrets We Keep

It is not a remake of Death and the Maiden nor is it flagrant plagiarism. Let's call it "inspired by" the Polanski film, with an added spoonful of Holocaust sauce. The locations and the era in which the film is set (1959) are a good backdrop to some excellent acting by Noomi Rapace.

This is an enjoyable thriller. Fairly original storyline and good performances from the three leads who take around 80% of the screen time. Slow paced, and it has to be for the story to unfold, some unpleasant scenes, which again are needed. I would have marked the film 8 if not for the very predictable last scene before the epilogue, still a good thriller though.

N.B I haven't seen 'Death And The Maiden' which comparisons are made in other reviews so my review is unbiased and about this film.

Regardless of its similarities to any other movie (which I have not seen) if you review this on its own merits it's a good enjoyable thriller with decent acting by all mains, holds your attention throughout.

Worth a watch

I really enjoyed this film. It is very well acted and directed. The cast is great. Noomi Rapace's performance is absolutely phenomenal. The story is both interesting and engaging. Keeps you wondering and thinking about the effects of the war. A lot of people who weren't affected moved on with their lives but those who were, couldn't just forget and leave the past behind (even after trying their best).

I think the rating here is too low. This movie is really good, especially if you like the genre. Don't expect it to be a fast paced action thriller. It's a mixture of drama and mystery. It's very emotional because it deals with tough issues like trauma, loss and secrets but it's also mysterious. Keeps you wondering who is right and who is wrong, who is the victim and who is the bad guy. I think those who didn't like, expected it to be more of a thriller or just wanted it to be something "new" that they've never seen before (some compared it to to the movie Death and the Maiden but I can't comment on that since I've never seen it). I'm not one who's always looking for the next big thing, the surprising twist or the most unique storyline. I'm more than happy to watch any well made movie. This is definitely one. It's a well made, interesting, powerful movie that makes you think about it after you're done watching it.

My only complaint is that (no spoilers) I think the final scene between the three main characters was a bit too short. I think if it was longer and contained more details it could have been even more powerful but other than that it's a great movie and I would definitely recommend watching it.

Way better than it's current 5.8 rating. It's an intriguing story and Noomi and Joel play the leads really well.

Don't be deterred by the bad reviews would be my advice.