Penance (2020)

Review Team

4/5

Penance, directed by Maurice Sweeney, is a poignant portrayal of grief and its ramifications on relationships. The film follows Rosalie and Luke, whose marriage unravels after the tragic loss of their son. The introduction of Jed, a charismatic figure from their bereavement group, adds layers of com ... Show more >> Penance, directed by Maurice Sweeney, is a poignant portrayal of grief and its ramifications on relationships. The film follows Rosalie and Luke, whose marriage unravels after the tragic loss of their son. The introduction of Jed, a charismatic figure from their bereavement group, adds layers of complexity to the narrative. The performances are commendable, particularly from the leads, who embody the raw emotions of their characters. The film's pacing allows for deep reflection, though some may find its slow burn approach challenging. The cinematography enhances the melancholic atmosphere, drawing viewers into the emotional turmoil of the characters. Overall, Penance is a thought-provoking film that masterfully explores the darker side of grief and the moral dilemmas that arise within it. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Penance is an emotional rollercoaster that dives deep into the murky waters of grief. At its core, it’s about Rosalie and Luke, a couple trying to hold their marriage together after losing their son. Then enters Jed, who seems like a breath of fresh air but quickly complicates everything. The perfor ... Show more >> Penance is an emotional rollercoaster that dives deep into the murky waters of grief. At its core, it’s about Rosalie and Luke, a couple trying to hold their marriage together after losing their son. Then enters Jed, who seems like a breath of fresh air but quickly complicates everything. The performances are solid, especially the tension between Rosalie and Jed, but the pacing felt a bit sluggish at times. While it successfully captures the heaviness of loss, some moments may leave you pondering if the film is dragging its feet. It’s not a horror flick, but it certainly has its unsettling moments. If you’re looking for a film that makes you think and feel, Penance might just be the right pick, but don’t expect a typical thriller. Show less