The Free World

Having read mixed reviews I wasn't sure what to expect but watched it mainly for Elizabeth Moss. Pretty simple and predictable story but the performances of the two leads lifts this movie, I thought it was a brilliant piece of movie making.

I am genuinely surprised by the negative/indifferent reviews of this film.

I found the story line original and well- paced. The performances by the two leads were exceptional, entirely plausible and soulful. Whilst I have seen criticism for the lack of character depth, it must be said that the movie's length did not allow for this. In any case, I think that it is not difficult for the audience to grasp both characters' 'back stories' and identify with the innocence of their mutual affection; the male lead having been incarcerated most of his adult life and the female lead seeing him as her saviour.

A warm, well-acted film with an "oh no!!!!" moment at the end.

I do hesitate to label anything a 'chick flick' but I anticipate the story line may appeal to a more sensitive audience.

This has to be one of the most intelligent moving all encompassing films I have seen in many years. It was a movie about survival in a world that is morally bankrupt. There are so many aspects of it to dissect but I'll focus only on a few. Having an underlying storyline of end of life for dogs was a perfect metaphor. At the point that they come to the shelter, everything has irrevocably changed for these pups and it happens most times due to no error or fault of the dog. It's just that inevitable stage of their lives when no matter how happy or unhappy their prior life, this is now. There's no going back (a line used later in the movie - how clever) The scene where the protagonist comforts a newly arrived dog is very powerful.

As forecasted by the dog storyline, the movie is also about broken systems and their impacts on human life. How they bring you to the brink. But there is, if not healing, then redemption. I appreciated the distinction made about 2 of our primary religions. I don't have to delve further because I'm not searching for a religion, but I appreciated the insight into what Islam at its best and most personal can mean. There's brokenness everywhere, and sadly often at the hands of white men, who seem to act with impunity and arrogance. But here's the surprise -the protagonist is white and he is the antithesis to that stereotype. Elizabeth Moss was amazing - so much depth over and beyond her Mad Men days. I get the love story although at times it felt implausible or rushed. But otherwise, truly excellent movie. I hope there is a book behind it somewhere.

I really didn't expect much out of this film,but decided ill check it out.

This is a well directed,well acted film. It left me touched,and appreciative of the experience. So many raw emotions.

The story was evolving and engrossing,the characters,portrayed wonderfully with all their vulnerabilities and inner strength.

The film showed characters,wounded from past experiences,rediscover hope in mutual past hurt and brutal experiences,build through it ,and evolve to have future and hope.

Most of the film is a drama,but toward the end it speeds up to a thriller and even some action.

Everything was conceived ,in my eyes ,to create this immaculate experience.

Like another reviewer, I too am really surprised by the low rating. I am so glad I decided to ignore the rating and give this movie a chance. The acting is suburb by both leads and supporting actors. Both Moss and Holbrook performances are stellar. Their pasts and pain meld and bond them together.

I am not going to reveal any of the story, but it is a subtle, sparse, intense and moving indie film. It is not a light movie that will make you feel warm and fuzzy. It's not meant to be. It shows the world realistically with all of its injustice, cruelty and yet also shows compassion. It is a movie that I know will stay with me for a long time.

If you are a fan of indie films with suburb acting and a story with depth I highly suggest giving it a watch.