Lilting (2014)

The review finds the film moving and lyrical, with Ben Whishaw’s sensitive performance providing much of its emotional intensity. It praises Hong Khaou’s rhythmic, memory-like flashbacks, though it feels Junn’s relationship with Alan goes on too long.

Clark finds the film a tender, confident study of grief and loneliness, despite some acting imbalance and a potentially manipulative delay in revealing how Kai died. He particularly praises Ben Whishaw’s extraordinarily moving portrayal of grief.

Peters finds the film intimate, delicate and delightful. He particularly praises the strong performances by Ben Whishaw and Cheng Pei-Pei.

Lodge finds the drama compassionate and emotionally delicate, with Whishaw giving his strongest showcase role in years. He singles out the palpable chemistry between Whishaw and Cheng Pei-pei, while noting that some dialogue is too direct.

Bradshaw finds the film heartfelt, intelligent and affecting. He praises its emotional story, while noting that Junn and Alan’s relationship feels slightly contrived.

Chang finds the film a quietly resonant, delicately handled drama, though its modest scale and restrained ending may limit its impact. He especially praises the performances and the film’s sensitive portrayal of grief across a language and cultural divide.

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The critic calls it a promising, lovingly composed debut, though its focus on mood sometimes weakens its dramatic momentum. She praises the film’s fragile beauty, especially its production design and cinematography.

The critic finds it a gentle, lyrical drama about grief and connection. The performances of Ben Whishaw and Cheng Pei Pei are singled out in its sensitive portrayal of loss.

The review describes the film as a quiet, thoughtful study of love, grief and cultural difference. It singles out its London setting and exploration of those themes.

Bowen finds the film dramatically inert despite its emotionally resonant premise. He praises Ben Whishaw’s vulnerable performance, while criticizing the contrast with Pei-pei Cheng’s limited expressiveness.

Sharkey finds the film captivating at first but ultimately undone by its uncertain direction. She praises its ethereal cinematography and the moments when its exploration of language and understanding comes alive.

The critic calls it a confident, graceful and sensitive debut, despite some contrived plot elements. They praise the way its fluid structure and cinematography create an atmosphere of sorrow and warmth.

Goldberg finds the film emotionally flat and overwrought despite its humane intentions. He praises a quiet moment of kindness from Richard, but says the film’s stilted conversations and restrained performance keep it from creating a meaningful connection.

Childs finds the film emotionally underdeveloped and overlong, despite its genuine intentions. She singles out Pei-pei Cheng’s performance and the portrayal of Junn’s isolation as its strongest elements.