Farewell Amor reexamines the saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder.” Walter is an Angolan immigrant who has been separated from his wife and family for nearly two decades. The movie’s attempt to reunite are a different look at the American Dream. Director Ekwa Misangi’s film has a distinctive look to it. Farewell Amor constantly fills the screen with blues and greens. Despite this, there is an almost tranquil quality to the film.
This is partially due to the great performances from the cast. After seventeen years apart, there is an understandable awkwardness felt by the family. It is an impressive performance that shows individual unease and a want to to convey a sense of family. The story arc between Walter and his daughter Sylvia is an especially fun one to watch.
While the story is a unique look at immigration, it still does hit many familiar beats. The conflict is one that has been done many times. There are also some convenient plot contrivances that stand out in the otherwise well written movie. Of course, this may all be intentional. Farewell Amor is out to tell a story. How it gets from one moment to the next is irrelevant. This is a story powered by characters and ideas. The actions are little more than a way to further the plot.
There are some great moments in the movie. The dance battle is particularly enjoyable. Ultimately, Farwell Amor is an intimate film that is more concerned with its internal drama. The decision to show the reunion from the point of view from each character is a great example of this. This also gives more insight into what each character is thinking and how they are feeling.
Farewell Amor is a powerful drama about a family being reunited. While it deals with immigration head on, it is not a movie interested in making a political statement. This is a movie about three people trying to The direction and cinematography are great while the writing draws the audience in. This is a great story about love, identity, and family.
Farewell Amor opens in theaters, VOD, an digital platforms December 11
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