Rent Babel (2006)

Multiple parallel plots - Babel review by JD

All the plots, and there are many, which are played out not quite synchronously are connected but often only just. This degree of multiplicity is very engaging and invites comparison. The plots are very different almost opposite. The frustrations of a deaf Japanese adolecent, the dull incestuous life of a Moroccan goatherd boy, an illegal immigrant Mexican nanny trying to attend her son's wedding, two Americans trying to patch up a marriage by touring Morocco and a desperately poor Moroccan family helping the pretty demanding Americans, one of whom speaks no English. I would contest that there are several other smaller sub-plots. In any event the most compelling comparison is language or lack of it.

The most compelling reason for watching this is not just Brad and Kate who are good but truly amazing performances by the Japanese and Moroccan actors/actresses. I was greatly impressed and, in no little way, moved. The best director award was well deserved.

Powerful Cause & Effect Drama - Babel review by GI

A powerful, intriguing and cleverly constructed drama with three interlocking stories. It's basically a cause & effect narrative that weaves a connection that stems from a moment of childish stupidity by two Moroccan goatherd brothers which affects married couple Richard (Brad Pitt) and Susan (Cate Blanchett) who are holidaying in Morocco, their two children and their Mexican nanny in the USA and a deaf Japanese teenager grieving over the death of her mother. The film has strong themes around human nature and communication focusing on relationships, love and sadness. There are some traumatic events in the film as the initial incident ripples outwards causing events that change peoples lives across the world. It's a remarkably intricate and compelling set of stories, well written and directed with some very original camerawork and with a structure that creates a mystery vibe at times. For first time viewers of this film it's a treat as the various scenarios gradually align together. Starkly realistic this is a drama that will draw you in and occasionally have you feeling on the edge of your seat so it's well worth checking out if you haven't seen it.

View if you love cinema - not a happy film - Babel review by CP Customer

The reviews above are helpful and accurate, but before you rush to rent, consider this. It is in my view a great film, beautifully shot, but not a happy film. The three stories are linked, but more importantly they have a common theme. It is not just pain, more about communication and the lack of it in some relationships. About misunderstanding. About how stuff happens and things go wrong, unintentionally. Hence the title. The editing is clever, but it can be annoying, as it jumps from one story to another. But stick with it and you will be rewarded. I have watched this film three times now. The first at the cinema. And now on Blu-Ray, which is excellent. The photography and shots of real life in each location are worth it alone. But the story is of people, family and children. Life is not a Hollywood romance. It is how we deal with challenges and have to accept the consequences of other people's actions. I have watched a lot of films over the years. This stands out as something different. A film you will remember, but may not love?

Powerful, multilingual drama. - Babel review by Steve

The best of the director's films with fragmented narratives demonstrating the interdependence of things. A gunshot in the North Africa has repercussions for ordinary people across the world. Inarritu shows us world where everyone tries to communicate, but no one is listening.