Mon Oct 28 17:40:00 UTC 2024: ## “Here” is a Sentimental Disaster, Critics Say
Robert Zemeckis’s latest film, “Here,” starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright, has been met with scathing reviews at the Chicago International Film Festival. Critics are calling the film a hollow and vapid attempt at a sentimental epic, lacking the depth and genuine emotion of Zemeckis’s previous work, like “Forrest Gump.”
The film’s premise, based on a graphic novel, follows the history of one location over centuries, using a “frames-within-the-frame” technique to transition between eras. While this concept could potentially be engaging, critics argue that it translates poorly to the big screen, resulting in awkwardly staged scenes and a repetitive sense of déjà vu.
The film’s focus on the Young family, a seemingly typical American family experiencing the joys and sorrows of life, fails to resonate with audiences due to the lack of compelling characters or compelling narratives. The inclusion of other families, including Native Americans and a Black family, feels forced and shallow, serving as tokenistic additions rather than meaningful explorations of diverse experiences.
Critics also highlight the film’s overreliance on computerized de-aging technology, which feels distracting and unnatural. The film’s attempts to evoke emotion are further hampered by the overuse of clichés and the jarring use of popular music, culminating in a cloying and manipulative experience.
“Here” marks a disappointment for Zemeckis, who has delivered captivating films in the past. This film is a missed opportunity, offering a shallow and predictable exploration of human experience that ultimately fails to move or inspire audiences.
First Piper 