What They Found (2025)

John Smith

4/5

What They Found, directed by Sam Mendes, is a haunting portrayal of the liberation of Belsen, seen through the eyes of two soldier-cameramen. The film's narrative is both compelling and deeply disturbing, capturing the emotional and psychological toll of war. Mendes' direction shines in the way he b ... Show more >> What They Found, directed by Sam Mendes, is a haunting portrayal of the liberation of Belsen, seen through the eyes of two soldier-cameramen. The film's narrative is both compelling and deeply disturbing, capturing the emotional and psychological toll of war. Mendes' direction shines in the way he balances the grim realities of the Holocaust with the personal stories of Sgt Mike Lewis and Sgt Bill Lawrie. The performances are stellar, particularly from the leads, who bring a raw authenticity to their roles. The cinematography is striking, often juxtaposing moments of beauty with harrowing imagery, forcing the audience to confront the stark contrast of human experience. While the film is not for the faint-hearted, it is a necessary watch for those interested in the complexities of war and memory. Show less

Emily Johnson

3/5

What They Found is an ambitious attempt to tackle the heavy subject of World War II's aftermath, but it sometimes feels like it struggles under its own weight. The film certainly has its moments of brilliance, especially in the performances of the two leads, who embody the emotional scars left by th ... Show more >> What They Found is an ambitious attempt to tackle the heavy subject of World War II's aftermath, but it sometimes feels like it struggles under its own weight. The film certainly has its moments of brilliance, especially in the performances of the two leads, who embody the emotional scars left by their experiences. However, the pacing can be uneven, with some scenes dragging on while others feel rushed. Mendes has crafted a visually stunning film, but it often feels like it is trying to do too much at once. The emotional depth is there, but the execution occasionally falters, leaving the viewer with a mixed bag of feelings. It's a film that aims high, and while it doesn't always hit the mark, it definitely leaves an impression. Show less