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Phillip McSween (751 KP) rated Widows (2018) in Movies
Jan 31, 2019
Acting: 10
Viola Davis. Viola Davis. Viola Davis. The power behind her acting is so evident, so purposeful. She plays the role of Veronica, a hard-ass who is also trying to mask her vulnerability. Her words are few, but her impact carries the film. She isn’t alone in her strong performance as Elizabeth Debicki and Cynthia Erivo also held their own. I appreciated the way Debicki showed her character’s growth from the beginning of the film to the end. Once passive and weak, she emerges as one that’s willing to do what she needs to survive.
I didn’t mention Michelle Rodriguez for a reason. I wasn’t impressed with her role this time around. Kind of a lame duck. Sorry, Michelle.
Beginning: 10
Widows gets off to a really hot start as it moves back and forth between the daily life of the main character Veronica and the heist that went wrong. It sets the tone that the film will be conflict-driven and entertaining. Watching the first ten minutes had me really excited to see the rest.
Characters: 9
Cinematography/Visuals: 5
There’s nothing that really stood out for me and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Widows was shot plainly and in forgettable fashion. Fortunately the story and the conflict that moves the story are both extremely strong. At the end of the day, if you tell a good story the right way, you don’t have to go overboard with cinematic flare.
Conflict: 8
Solid action here. The movie benefits by having strong antagonists that actually make you fear for the lives of the main characters. You can’t really predict what is going to happen from one scene to the next. The intensity picks up even more when the characters arrive at the main heist. Very strong scene that will have you on the edge of your seat as you anticipate things going horribly wrong.
Genre: 8
I give credit to stories that are told in unique fashion. There aren’t enough heist films starring women so I’m hoping this is the beginning of what could be a very popular trend. From a dramatic standpoint, Widows absolutely holds its own.
Memorability: 8
Pace: 9
Plot: 10
Again, much credit is given to originality. The story moves quickly and is believable, only really slowing down in one spot. I also appreciate the twists that add some flare to the story without overdoing it. Sometimes twists can cause a hug eyeroll. Not this time.
Resolution: 10
Overall: 87
My expectations were minimal, but I must say that I was thoroughly impressed with how Widows turned out. It’s a fun ride from beginning to end. You won’t be disappointed.