With Difficulty Comes Ease (2024)

Review Team

4/5

With Difficulty Comes Ease is a profound narrative that delves into the intricacies of grief and the resilience of the human spirit. Directed by Korede Azeez, the film centres around Zainab, a recently widowed Muslim woman, who faces the oppressive confines of her mother-in-law's home during her mou ... Show more >> With Difficulty Comes Ease is a profound narrative that delves into the intricacies of grief and the resilience of the human spirit. Directed by Korede Azeez, the film centres around Zainab, a recently widowed Muslim woman, who faces the oppressive confines of her mother-in-law's home during her mourning period. The film's strength lies in its character development, particularly Zainab's transformative journey as she grapples with her secret pregnancy and financial struggles. The performances are genuinely moving, with the lead actress delivering a heartfelt portrayal that resonates deeply. Azeez's direction is both sensitive and insightful, capturing the emotional turmoil Zainab experiences while also highlighting the importance of friendship in overcoming life's challenges. The cinematography complements the narrative beautifully, with its intimate framing and soft colour palette that enhance the film's emotional weight. Overall, With Difficulty Comes Ease is a compelling exploration of personal loss and the pursuit of hope, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate character-driven dramas. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

With Difficulty Comes Ease has its heart in the right place, but it occasionally stumbles under the weight of its own emotional ambition. The story follows Zainab, a widow trapped in her mother-in-law's home, and while the premise is rich with potential, it sometimes feels like a slow burn that test ... Show more >> With Difficulty Comes Ease has its heart in the right place, but it occasionally stumbles under the weight of its own emotional ambition. The story follows Zainab, a widow trapped in her mother-in-law's home, and while the premise is rich with potential, it sometimes feels like a slow burn that tests the viewer's patience. The performances shine, especially from the lead, who brings authenticity to Zainab's struggles. However, some scenes drag on a bit too long, leaving me wishing for a tighter edit. The film's exploration of grief is poignant, and the friendship that develops is genuinely touching, but I felt it could have benefitted from a bit more narrative punch. The direction by Korede Azeez is commendable, yet there are moments where the pacing falters. While it may not resonate with everyone, it offers a thoughtful look at how we cope with loss and find solace in unexpected places. Fans of character-driven stories will likely find something to appreciate here, but it may not be for those seeking a more dynamic plot. Show less