Armand (2024)

Armand (2024). 1h 57m | R

“From the grandson of Ingmar German and Liv Ullman, Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel has a debut that shows good potential but despite itu0026#39;s ambitious concept and strong moments, it fails to fully hold itu0026#39;s narrative and goes through a limbo.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThe psychological drama and themes explored of school system and the battle of wits between people is a good concept, especially not knowing much from the European standpoint. With good camerawork and sound designs, it helps to create the claustrophobic setting and tensions. The performances from the cast, especially Renate Reinsve was great and felt realistic. Unfortunately, what makes the movie not work is the way the narrative is written and how bumpy it feels.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eMany of the writing components have good concepts but itu0026#39;s surrealist approach didnu0026#39;t work, which ends up feeling repetitive and muddled as it continues. Making things a bit difficult to really understand or connect with the characters or finding them believable at times. Stories like these are movies I like but I canu0026#39;t really engage with it because of the muddled writing and repetitive nature. The direction from Tøndel is good but at some moments, the direction felt a bit misplaced and lost. Being heavy dialogue, the dialogue is a mix of both good and some not so good.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eAt itu0026#39;s core, Tøndel has a lot of talent as this movie does show his talents and potential of being a good filmmaker in the future. But thereu0026#39;s a lot of work still to be done.”