All the Empty Rooms (2025)

Review Team

4.5/5

'All the Empty Rooms' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of loss and memory, directed with sensitivity by Joshua Seftel. The film follows a journalist and photographer who venture into the empty bedrooms of children who fell victim to school shootings, aiming to immortalise their stories. What un ... Show more >> 'All the Empty Rooms' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of loss and memory, directed with sensitivity by Joshua Seftel. The film follows a journalist and photographer who venture into the empty bedrooms of children who fell victim to school shootings, aiming to immortalise their stories. What unfolds is a poignant reflection on grief, societal violence, and the resilience of the human spirit. The cinematography is striking, with each shot meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of emptiness and sorrow. The performances are equally compelling, drawing the audience into the characters' emotional turmoil. This film is not just a narrative; it is a heartfelt tribute to those who have suffered unimaginable loss. It challenges viewers to confront difficult truths while encouraging empathy and understanding. A must-watch for those seeking a film that resonates on a profound level. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

'All the Empty Rooms' attempts to tackle an incredibly sensitive subject matter, but it occasionally stumbles under the weight of its ambition. Directed by Joshua Seftel, the film follows a journalist and a photographer documenting the bedrooms of children lost to school shootings. While the concept ... Show more >> 'All the Empty Rooms' attempts to tackle an incredibly sensitive subject matter, but it occasionally stumbles under the weight of its ambition. Directed by Joshua Seftel, the film follows a journalist and a photographer documenting the bedrooms of children lost to school shootings. While the concept is undeniably powerful, the execution feels uneven at times. The performances are solid but fail to fully capture the emotional depth required for such a heavy topic. The pacing drags in places, and some scenes feel overly sentimental, detracting from the film's impact. Despite these flaws, there are moments of genuine poignancy that shine through, particularly in the visual storytelling. 'All the Empty Rooms' is worth a viewing for its important message, but it may not resonate with everyone in the way it intends. Show less