Sea of Silence

I watched this film recently at the Hong Kong Int Film Fest and found it, as stated, to be honest and touching. Honest, from the point of view that the story is dealing with religious/social feelings and 'obligations' in late 60's Belgium, and I'm sure they would apply to other areas of Europe at the same time. The fact that the family is coping with an alcoholic father/husband and the whole community knows about his habit is also very honest.

Some of the more touching parts of the film are the daughters attitude to her forthcoming holy communion and her imagination of what communion means for her 'relationship' with God. Also, the portrayal of how children behave when growing up, the telling of a secret, for example is well observed.

Not having seen any other films from Belgium, I cannot comment on whether it merited a nomination for the Academy Awards over any other film produced in 2003. But, what I can say is that the film has nothing to be ashamed of. It has treated the issues sensitively and honestly. Giving a good insight into the attitudes of the era.

This film was entertaining to watch. 7.5/10