Reviews

Here (12A) |Close-Up Film Review

Director: Robert Zemeckis, US, 2024, 164m

Cast:   Tom Hanks, Robin Wright

Review by Matthew Morlai Kamara

Here, helmed by Robert Zemeckis, reunites Tom Hanks and Robin Wright in a poignant exploration of families, memories, and the passage of time.

Inspired by Richard McGuire’s graphic novel, the film focuses on a single space that evolves through generations, capturing life’s highs and lows as it unfolds in this shared environment.

Visually, the film is breathtaking. The seamless transitions between timelines are a testament to the masterful editing, and the set design stands out as a highlight, beautifully illustrating the passage of decades. Hanks and Wright’s performances are captivating, evoking nostalgia for their iconic pairing in Forrest Gump.

However, the film’s reliance on non-linear storytelling is a double-edged sword. While the constant shifts in time add uniqueness, they occasionally disrupt the narrative flow, making the film feel fragmented. Though the acting is superb, the storyline lacks the depth needed to truly resonate. As someone who isn’t particularly drawn to time-hopping storytelling, I found the approach slightly frustrating, though others may see it as the film’s defining feature.

Despite its flaws however, Here delivers moments of intrigue and emotional connection. It’s a visually stunning film with strong performances, though its weak storyline and unconventional structure may divide audiences. For fans of ambitious storytelling, it’s worth a watch..