75
Metascore
11 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 90The Hollywood ReporterDavid RooneyThe Hollywood ReporterDavid RooneyTold with captivating simplicity and yet richly cinematic, it combines ethnographic and spiritual elements in a haunting love story with classic undertones, affording a glimpse into a little-known culture.
- 90Screen DailyFionnuala HalliganScreen DailyFionnuala HalliganIt’s a beautiful odyssey with strong spiritual undertones.
- 90VarietyRichard KuipersVarietyRichard KuipersThe pic weaves fascinating details of tribal life into a universally accessible and emotionally affecting romantic drama.
- Tanna has a warm, shimmering vitality. Like the trees and the birds, the frame feels alive.
- 80Village VoiceNick SchagerVillage VoiceNick SchagerSubtly visualizing the connection shared between the land and its people (and their interior conditions), Tanna proves rich in both sociological detail and roiling emotions.
- 80Los Angeles TimesKenneth TuranLos Angeles TimesKenneth TuranMost surprising are the involving performances of all concerned, but especially the pair playing the young lovers, actors with finely expressive eyes and faces.
- 80CineVueJohn BleasdaleCineVueJohn BleasdaleDean doubles as cinematographer and his ability to unobtrusively capture moments of village life is matched for an eye for the natural beauty the tribe lives amidst. But it's a beauty which never drowns the film. There's also room for jokes and gossip, nastiness and fun.
- 75Washington PostStephanie MerryWashington PostStephanie MerryThe movie is a tremendous accomplishment, especially considering that the cast had never seen cameras before — much less movies — yet still agreed to star in the drama. Their performances are as stunning as the setting, and that’s truly saying something.
- 50Slant MagazineChuck BowenSlant MagazineChuck BowenThe film blends the Bard with National Geographic, failing to make a case for the inexplicability of their union.
- 50The New York TimesGlenn KennyThe New York TimesGlenn KennyDespite its best efforts, Tanna drifts into a mode of exoticism that renders it an ultimately frustrating experience.