"An emotionally loaded drama about the father-son bond that develops between a listless, recently divorced Calais swim instructor and a Kurdish boy who desperately wants to learn to swim.
Dramatising the stark inhumanity of France’s laws regarding illegal immigrants and those who offer them shelter, Welcome was a surprise box office success in France - and the subject of much public debate. The excellent Vincent Lindon is the latest incarnation of a uniquely French movie type; the sexy, soulful, no-frills working guy. You can be moved by his Simon, even while you see just how his wife (Audrey Dana) might have yearned for someone a little more forward-looking. A superb director of actors, Philippe Lioret blends his stars with Kurdish amateurs, drawing a potently affecting performance from 17-year old Firat Ayverdi as the ardent, focused Bilal." (World Cinema Showcase 2010)
I apologise, we feel bad, but there's no trailer available. ~Ed.
This is such a great film. Forget about fancy 3d, fast pace loud american crap ... this is a film that does not need any of those tricks to keep you genuinely glued to the screen. HUMANITY or at times the lack of it, is what makes this movie so remarkable. What the hell are we (humans) doing to ourselves? I guess at least for every 100 bastards there's a good guy. An affecting film that will have you reconsider to what extent you are willing to be human, social and forgiving towards 'the other' in an ever-harshening world
A French drama about a young Kurdish refugee, Bilal, who wants to cross the English Channel from Calais so he can join his girlfriend. It develops into quite a touching story as he is befriended (almost adopted) by his swimming coach, Simon, who is going through a divorce. Bilal decides to swim across the Channel and takes swimming lessons! A thoroughly enjoyable film.
Lovestruck Kurdish teenager Bilal Kiyani (Firat Ayverdi) is desperately trying to reach London to be reunited with his girlfriend, Mina.
The movie offers no simple solutions, nor even a feel-good ending, but throws a cold light on the human tragedy that underlies many of today's headlines.
Compelling, finely balanced immigration drama.
Compelling French refugee tale
Welcome is a film which will have you thinking long after the credits roll.
We've been told the NZ release date for this flick is Thursday, 1st Jul 2010.
Release date: July 1st 2010.
We haven't received times for this movie in this location yet. However these are updated as cinemas announce them, so check back soon. Hopefully the lovely cinemas in your location will choose to play it shortly. ~Ed.
