Reviews

• “Felt right down to the core. /…/  It is a dense and thrilling story that does not give way to anything.”

• “Dialogue-driven hostage drama with brilliant acting. /…/ Every word in the incredibly well-written dialogue sits where it should. Comments about racism and mental illness are woven together with the drama and gives the film extra depth.”

• “A white-knuckle powerhouse drama that shouldn’t be missed. /…/ A movie that relies on the viewer not knowing just where the story will go next. This film demands your attention; it unravels with concise direction and writing that demonstrates you can make a riveting 90-minute movie rooted in unflinching realism. Fares Fares’ directorial debut is a necessary watch for those who yearn for old-school filmmaking magic.”

• “A rock-solid hostage thriller. /…/ Fares and Peter Smirnakos’ screenplay feeds on that suspenseful setup, which, along with some sturdy, naturalist direction, keeps us emotionally engaged and absorbed in the drama. /…/ There isn’t good and evil in this story, but rather, believable characters with broken hearts.”