Movie with Abe: In Bloom (Capsule Review)

In Bloom
Directed by Nana Ekvtimishvili and Simon Groß
Released January 10, 2014

The country of Georgia’s submission for Best Foreign Film is a subtle tale of two young girls striving to be seen as much older and more mature than they actually are, and the way in which that translates into reality in their often dangerous society. Its two protagonists, Eka and Natia, are both vibrant, are both magnetic central figures, and their personalities serve to drive the film’s often slow development into more interesting territory. The film addresses the 1990s political situation in Georgia, and effectively captures the spirit of a discontent people. Its best moments come from its two main characters and their realizations about their lives and the impact that they have on them. The film is occasionally disturbing and at others engaging, and rarely both at the same time. Its title has many layers, but its subject matter isn’t quite as cleverly developed.

B-