Amour
Sony Pictures Classics | Release Date: December 19, 2012
8.1
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 352 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
295
Mixed:
36
Negative:
21
Watch Now
Buy on
Stream On
Stream On
Review this movie
VOTE NOW
 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Check box if your review contains spoilers 0 characters (5000 max)

User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
nathanrobertsJan 17, 2013
Ultimate cinematic perfection ! this film is the symbol of life and love. Not only is it beautifully crafted but the acting is impeccable highlighting the honest and true nature of the screenplay, in my eyes film can get no better .
HanekeUltimate cinematic perfection ! this film is the symbol of life and love. Not only is it beautifully crafted but the acting is impeccable highlighting the honest and true nature of the screenplay, in my eyes film can get no better .
Haneke is the best director of 2012 and produced the best film too.… Expand
4 of 4 users found this helpful40
All this user's reviews
8
NedRyerson1Feb 18, 2013
Amour is a hard to follow film, but it is one of the most beautiful that I have ever seen. It is very touching and also rough, because it is noticeable the point that true love can reach. The movie portrayed an old woman with hemiplegia causeAmour is a hard to follow film, but it is one of the most beautiful that I have ever seen. It is very touching and also rough, because it is noticeable the point that true love can reach. The movie portrayed an old woman with hemiplegia cause by a vascular accident with progressive decrease of brain activity and the future of the marriage will fall to her husband. What this picture is doing, is trying to figure out what is love, using apart from the plot, the script, the cameras and the performances. That is why the movie is so slow, with static camera movements and with people that evaluate what they are doing, because you cannot rush love, it is about patience and understanding. Everything in the film is well prepared, Michael Haneke definitely did an excellent job in directing and the protagonist couple is just brilliant, but I think is more Jean-Louis Trintignant than Emmanuelle Riva.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
7
LynMar 4, 2013
Emanuelle Riva richly earns her Oscar nomination but be prepared to feel that you are trapped for two hours in a disturbing, depressing French nursing home. I found myself thinking of another, brilliant French-language film, "The BarbarianEmanuelle Riva richly earns her Oscar nomination but be prepared to feel that you are trapped for two hours in a disturbing, depressing French nursing home. I found myself thinking of another, brilliant French-language film, "The Barbarian Invasions," which had some similar themes. It's not quite fair to compare that one in which the dying man is surrounded with a boisterous cast of characters to this one, so focused on the quiet twosome. But I wish that I'd had more of a sense of the meaning of Anne's life before I had to witness her awful decline.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
10
nutterjrFeb 9, 2013
Old age is tough and takes a lot of strength to deal with. And when the time comes and the natural decline sets in, love will help guide the toughest path ahead. Haneke has created a number of exceptional thrillers but none so horrific asOld age is tough and takes a lot of strength to deal with. And when the time comes and the natural decline sets in, love will help guide the toughest path ahead. Haneke has created a number of exceptional thrillers but none so horrific as Amour, his true masterpiece.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
7
BestponyNov 26, 2013
Amour is a very dry film, seemingly as elegant and lifeless as the museum-like apartment in which the elderly couple lives. In a way it feels necessary, focusing with unflinching precision on an aspect of love and relationships that isAmour is a very dry film, seemingly as elegant and lifeless as the museum-like apartment in which the elderly couple lives. In a way it feels necessary, focusing with unflinching precision on an aspect of love and relationships that is usually overlooked (and certainly not by accident). The problem is, as the title suggests, this is a film about a phenomenon, a philosophical concept, but not about people. The two characters do have names, but for all intents and purposes they are just Old Person 1 and Old Person 2, and as the camera's gaze bounces off their impeccably shot faces and rests on shelves full of old, dusty books, it becomes apparent that this isn't really a drama, but more of an essay, and instead of a punch in the gut it delivers a long, stern lecture. You should absolutely see it if you haven't already, but that's the central problem with Amour: it's the kind of film that you watch because it's important, not because it's good.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
10
cnrcnrJan 14, 2013
Amour is a masterpiece! Hanake portrays love at its most beautiful and brutal. Some of the scenes are so distressing, yet stunning. The Art direction and cinematography are visually sensational! and the acting from Emmanuelle Riva, is next toAmour is a masterpiece! Hanake portrays love at its most beautiful and brutal. Some of the scenes are so distressing, yet stunning. The Art direction and cinematography are visually sensational! and the acting from Emmanuelle Riva, is next to non, one of the greatest performances I have seen! Best film of 2012 and is possibly my favourite film of the last 10 years.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
10
thairocks88Feb 27, 2013
What makes Michael Haneke one of the greatest living filmmakers is that his films only get better! Amour's great visual storytelling, subtle dialogue, and graceful cinematography made this film a true artistic masterpiece! Haneke provides aWhat makes Michael Haneke one of the greatest living filmmakers is that his films only get better! Amour's great visual storytelling, subtle dialogue, and graceful cinematography made this film a true artistic masterpiece! Haneke provides a real and articulate story that is not pretentious or preachy. While some may condemn "Amour" for being tedious and morally ambiguous, the greatest stories are not told with quick editing, fancy cinematography, and booms and bangs! The greatest stories are told with grace, subtlety, and love.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
5
heyitsmegrif4Jan 13, 2013
Amour features fine actors doing their best, but they also have to give performances that come from boring and never compelling characters. The story is simple and features plot points that aren't needed or particularly make sense. AnAmour features fine actors doing their best, but they also have to give performances that come from boring and never compelling characters. The story is simple and features plot points that aren't needed or particularly make sense. An original score would have been nice to hear because I was bored most of the time with it featuring long quiet scenes with no dialogue. Michael Haneke's Amour is a boring and undeniably pretty drama that manages to be forgettable. I give this movie 58%.… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
All this user's reviews
2
csw12Feb 2, 2013
Amour is certainly not the worse film of the year. It is without a doubt the most boring. There are too many slow, silent and flat out wasteful scenes taking forever to complete. The worse part was all the times throughout the film wereAmour is certainly not the worse film of the year. It is without a doubt the most boring. There are too many slow, silent and flat out wasteful scenes taking forever to complete. The worse part was all the times throughout the film were literally nothing is happening. This just sucks the emotion out of the entire movie.… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
All this user's reviews
5
TVJerryFeb 18, 2013
Jean-Louis Trintignant and Emmanuelle Riva play a Parisian couple in their 80s. When she has an attack, he nurses her thru the final agonizing days. Michael Haneke is a skilled director, who's at his most stark and dispassionate, whichJean-Louis Trintignant and Emmanuelle Riva play a Parisian couple in their 80s. When she has an attack, he nurses her thru the final agonizing days. Michael Haneke is a skilled director, who's at his most stark and dispassionate, which translates into interminable pacing, uncompromising camera and oblique narrative. If you like watching the deterioration of a woman in a detached, heavy and bleak atmosphere, you may appreciate this well-acted but agonizing (in so many ways) examination. Call me shallow, but I wasn't moved.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
6
jhepMar 3, 2013
It’s alarming to see how savvy some filmmakers are becoming at knowing just what material and what “spin” will gain them big critical jackpots and festival jury prizes. "Amour" is a case in point and suggests that the line betweenIt’s alarming to see how savvy some filmmakers are becoming at knowing just what material and what “spin” will gain them big critical jackpots and festival jury prizes. "Amour" is a case in point and suggests that the line between demographic-massaging advertising agencies and shrewd, cachet-hunting filmmakers is diminishing at an alarming rate. The film is basically a genteel “infomercial” that argues the case for euthanasia; it's an highly aggressive, in-your-face exercise and a very ONE-NOTE, highly aggressive, in-your-face exercise..........What it also has “going for it” in some circles at any rate- is the Jerry Springer-like touch of casting two well known stars of yesteryear, now in their 80s, in the lead roles. This brings an eerie Reality TV touch to the proceedings and something of a “frisson nouveau” to your card-carrying film buff audience (the demographic-massaging angle) Think how much, by way of comparison, the casting two relative unknowns would have affected the film’s reception...... In Teen Speak it would have been …..“B-O-R-R-R-I-N-G !!!”

Jean-Louis Trintignant in particular struggles to breath life into the sparse characterization that writer/director Haneke has provided for him. However his efforts are in vain, for the forces of “infomercial-hood” are aligned against him here and (even more artistically crippling) Haneke’s somewhat gleeful penchant for the morbid. This latter holds sway as his camera zooms in to capture every detail of the physical and mental disintegration of Trintignant‘s wife (the now 85-year-old star of "Hiroshima Mon Amour" Emmanuelle Riva.) Indeed, Riva’s character soon becomes a sort of laboratory specimen that Haneke is studying intently under the microscope “I wonder what will “go” next he seems to be asking himself, pencil in hand with the result that The Wife (which is the sort of generic entity that Riva is finally reduced to) ends up becoming disconcertingly like that giant bug that Gregor Samsa turns into in Kafka’s "The Metamorphosis" By contrast, one wonders what Jean Renoir or Douglas Sirk would have done with this material. The fact that Riva’s character is not particularly sympathetic to begin with only adds to the uneasiness- indeed, queasiness- we end up experiencing as we’re invited to observe the spectacle of her relentless undoing....... Sad to say, by that point in the film either this latter studying-the-bug-under-the-microscope sensation or else flat out boredom seem to be our only options. "Amour" is an award-winning and highly pretentious film and the two go together much too often for comfort these days.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
9
GreatMartinFeb 6, 2013
In a perfect world Emmanuelle Riva would win the Oscar for Best Actress but then, in a perfect world, her co-star Jean-Louis Trintignant would at least have received a nomination for Best Actor and he didn’t. In “Amour”, the movie they costarIn a perfect world Emmanuelle Riva would win the Oscar for Best Actress but then, in a perfect world, her co-star Jean-Louis Trintignant would at least have received a nomination for Best Actor and he didn’t. In “Amour”, the movie they costar in, they are not actors creating roles but real people you believe in, understand, feel for and identify with, no matter your age.

“Amour” is a mass of contradictions showing all sides of life and love and that neither life or love, or both, mean ‘happily ever after’. The film is a depressing one but, at the same time, shows you how two people can love each other without saying the words. We know how the movie will end because it starts with the police breaking into an apartment and finding Anne, (Emmanuelle Riva) dead in bed surrounded by flowers. After that the title is announced, the credits start and the next scene shows Anne and Georges (Jean-Louis Trintignant), retired music teachers, at a concert given by a former student and then the following morning, when, at the breakfast table, she starts staring off into space and suffers a stroke caused by a blocked carotid artery .

The screenplay by Michael Haneke, who also directed, tells the story from the male point of view when half of a devoted team becomes a caretaker and watches the partner he has loved for so long deteriorate. At first he tries to handle it alone but it becomes too much and he hires two nurses but finds one treating his wife like a baby and taking away her dignity so with much rage showing in his eyes and controlled voice he tells her to get out. Their daughter Eva (Isabelle Huppert) lives overseas, very much involved with tensions between her and her husband, and has drifted from her parents though she remembers walking in on them when she was young and they were having sex, making love and enjoying it closing out the rest of the world, including her.

Watching Riva and Trintignant expressing love with touches, looks, smiles and memories makes you forget you are watching a movie with actors being told where to stand and what to say. You feel you are looking into a world very few couples ever experience and the consequences of life no matter how much you love someone.

“Amour” is a very slow moving movie but every moment counts and you get so caught up with the couple there are two points that you will involuntarily gasp as the whole audience does and when the movie ends you want it to go on. The ending caused many controversies between moviegoers as they walked out of the auditorium.

This is a special love story showing what can happen at the end rather than at the beginning of mating for life, for ‘better or worse’.

A MUST SEE MOVIE--HOPEFULLY WILL WIN OSCAR FOR BEST FOREIGN MOVIE!… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
10
MarkAngelDec 19, 2012
Arguably, the finest movie i've seen this year. Being as close to a masterpiece as a single movie can get, this uncompromising, gently quiet piece of art, masterfully purged from any form of sentimental glitch and kitsch, treats itsArguably, the finest movie i've seen this year. Being as close to a masterpiece as a single movie can get, this uncompromising, gently quiet piece of art, masterfully purged from any form of sentimental glitch and kitsch, treats its audiences with unbelievable dignity and respect (which is so rare in the contemporary cinema), it poses the main questions and gives indefinite and countless frameworks for answering them. In the same time it tends to be "the ultimate horror movie". The repetitive disturbances and interruptions of the music which becomes it's leitmotif, the nightmares, the stares into the void, the pigeon and ultimately, its treatment of love and death in the context of George and Anne, make "Amour" even more disturbing then "The Seventh Continent".… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
10
theahsanhaseebDec 20, 2012
Amour is a meticulous, demanding and a delicate psychological drama with a story and narrative beyond your imagination, it includes the elements of love, drama, and horror in a single storyline. The beginning is a mere proof that something isAmour is a meticulous, demanding and a delicate psychological drama with a story and narrative beyond your imagination, it includes the elements of love, drama, and horror in a single storyline. The beginning is a mere proof that something is going to happen in the end, but how it would, and more importantly, WHY it would, reveals in the film through old memories, poetry and heart-warming conversations. A lot of people may not like this movie and think of it as garbage, which I know would happen but let me put it this way: Not everyone can understand the true meaning of this film. You have to understand what is going on, you have to think of the story from everyone… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
10
HaithamBayazeedFeb 8, 2013
The movie is boring, for some, because it is not for everyone, or all ages, the movie is highly disturbing, and interesting. it focuses on weak people, who can't handle an accident, although it is terrible, but LOVE of coarse, will connectThe movie is boring, for some, because it is not for everyone, or all ages, the movie is highly disturbing, and interesting. it focuses on weak people, who can't handle an accident, although it is terrible, but LOVE of coarse, will connect everything, NOT IN THIS MOVIE!!… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
8
fredphoeshJan 23, 2013
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a fantastic and powerful movie... amazing performances, unrelenting realism... and then comes the ending. I REALLY DISLIKED the way it ended/began and think it undermined the integrity of the film. It was uncharacteristically sentimental. My guess is this was done to give the wider audience a slightly nicer-than-bleak tone? Why else would the director want us to believe that after he (presumably) kills himself (what on earth happens to his body???) the couple are re-united in the "afterlife". Hmmm. Sweet, but irrelevant to the story and superstitious speculation at best. The missing body, or the fact it was not alluded to at the start of the movie when her body is found, seems like an unnecessary and contrived ploy "to make us wonder", debate the ending etc... In this way it is contrived, perhaps a marketing department idea to create a "hook" for cinema goers to debate and therefore promote the movie. This missing body anomaly, and the fact that we are given the "feel good" token at the end seems entirely inconsistent with the rest of the movie - which is so beautifully real. So the ending (beginning) is really poor and somewhat spoils what would have been a masterpiece.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
All this user's reviews
6
Apemonkey666Jan 15, 2013
This is a typical movie that film critics love but is hard to like. The wife of an elderly couple gets a stroke, and from there it goes downhill. The film is incredibly slow but also realistic and as the woman's health and mental stateThis is a typical movie that film critics love but is hard to like. The wife of an elderly couple gets a stroke, and from there it goes downhill. The film is incredibly slow but also realistic and as the woman's health and mental state deteriorate it becomes more difficult for the man to cope with the situation and also for you as a viewer more irritating to watch. Watching this film is like spending time in a retirement home, it's depressing, you don't wanna stay longer then necessary and you're glad when it's over.… Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
All this user's reviews
3
brewsterFeb 2, 2013
I enjoy "slice of life" movies but this one was just too much. The acting is fantastic, first-rate, rarely better. The plot is sort of familiar, elderly couple, long term marriage, one gets very sick before the other, and the movie focusesI enjoy "slice of life" movies but this one was just too much. The acting is fantastic, first-rate, rarely better. The plot is sort of familiar, elderly couple, long term marriage, one gets very sick before the other, and the movie focuses how the less ill spouse manages the more ill spouse. The movie begins with the unsurprising end, then painstakingly drags us down every dark hallway, bathroom kitchen, art museum, and on and on and on and on.......ad infinitum. The directors propensity to freeze shots, bereft of activity, meaning, or purpose, that seem endless. Not clear what he is trying to accomplish, what message he is trying to send, short of a veneer of seriousness or agony (in this case, of the viewer). This film is flat out boring and even incredible acting cannot bail it out.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
All this user's reviews
0
NazguleroJul 14, 2013
Sweet Jesus, the only one that deserves an award is the audience, and being able to sit through this without...falling........asleeeeeppppp....
This movie is completely lifeless, void of any dynamic, the characters are far more boring thanSweet Jesus, the only one that deserves an award is the audience, and being able to sit through this without...falling........asleeeeeppppp....
This movie is completely lifeless, void of any dynamic, the characters are far more boring than anyone can ever be in real life, and you will have a hard time not wishing for them to just die so the movie can end. I am not sure who exactly is sitting on that Cannes jury, but they seem to have forgotten that the one main element that makes a movie good is whether or not the audience is entertained.… Expand
0 of 17 users found this helpful017
All this user's reviews
7
cinemaquoteJan 18, 2013
yes haneke is a stern and grand director, yes this movie is over hyped, yet... it is a very poignant story. what struck me the most was to watch riva and trintignant 50 or more years after their breakthrough roles and find them so powerfulyes haneke is a stern and grand director, yes this movie is over hyped, yet... it is a very poignant story. what struck me the most was to watch riva and trintignant 50 or more years after their breakthrough roles and find them so powerful even if remote from the image they portrayed then. huppert is a surprise in every sense. the confined imagery, the apartment, the love story will indeed be iconic.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
4
mepittsFeb 2, 2013
Just another reminder to myself to look beyond rave reviews.

PROS: Strong actors. A cultured, music-filled context for the story. CONS: The characters are simply not interesting or compelling people. We were led to believe thatJust another reminder to myself to look beyond rave reviews.

PROS: Strong actors. A cultured, music-filled context for the story.

CONS: The characters are simply not interesting or compelling people. We were led to believe that something "deep" was going on because of so much silence and empty space in the film. The male lead appropriately and scornfully dismissed a careless nurse, but did not treat his wife that well himself. While it's true that sometimes silence can be profound, it's also true that silence can be empty. Some films use sadness and space to communicate important and useful messages. This film was just a container for sadness and space. RECOMMENDATION: Don't go.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
All this user's reviews
10
rafamatinhoDec 20, 2012
Is the most intense and powerful movie that I ever watched. Never someone touched a scar like this before, Haneke as usual, torture the viewers with his perspective of the world. It's also the best movie of the year.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
4
artifaxxFeb 4, 2013
This movie is quite drawn-out and boring. The story being told provides you no reason to care about either of the main characters or to relate in any way to them. Not worth the two hours.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
Luiz_FelipeAug 28, 2013
What a sad movie! Gets you wondering how will you get old. This kind of non-hollywoodian film can be oustanding some times, but here that's not the case, in my humble opinion. Go for The Intouchables.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
0
TLHGJul 4, 2016
To me this is as bad as a movie experience gets... The movie is extremely overrated and I suspect it has to do with the "artsy pseudo-intellectual niche". The acting is very solid and the style frames the pic as something that looks like aTo me this is as bad as a movie experience gets... The movie is extremely overrated and I suspect it has to do with the "artsy pseudo-intellectual niche". The acting is very solid and the style frames the pic as something that looks like a solid, profound drama. This frame is but a frame though. If you stop to think what this movie is really about you will see that the style is pure style, which makes the movie really shallow and superficial and the good acting a waste of talent.
The thing is, this is one of those movies that has no reason to exists, cause it shows nothing special, it inspires nothing, it adds nothing to the table. The movie is a long arrangement of scenes that do not differ a lot from what you'll see if you pay more attention to your grandparents or to the old couple that lives in the same neighborhood as you. Maybe to some extent the intention of the movie was to develop awareness of the limits of life... but it attempts so in such a boring, slow approach and it really does not work. If you don't like seeing old people doing their routines, the movie will be boring. If you appreciate the respect people of age deserve, don't praise this movie, stop being lazy and get off your couch and go interact with you grandma or grandpa… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
9
frederik1478Sep 27, 2020
An amazing movie about old people and love, Death is something that comes for us all but we all wanted to be in a dignified way This movie is about what if we are forced to slowly crimple from the Inside from illness and Strokes, I enjoyed itAn amazing movie about old people and love, Death is something that comes for us all but we all wanted to be in a dignified way This movie is about what if we are forced to slowly crimple from the Inside from illness and Strokes, I enjoyed it immensely and look forward to seeing it in the future… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
10
LegitSaltMay 8, 2020
Black Swan very well could be the best film of the decade; however, Amour takes the ceremonial prize due to Haneke’s skill as a director. Sure, Jean-Louis Trintignant and Emmanuelle Riva give some of the best performances of the decade, andBlack Swan very well could be the best film of the decade; however, Amour takes the ceremonial prize due to Haneke’s skill as a director. Sure, Jean-Louis Trintignant and Emmanuelle Riva give some of the best performances of the decade, and certainly, their supporting cast is wonderful, but the film’s atmosphere, looming shots, and thematic concepts surpass this. Haneke’s distinct style can run amok within Amour, heavily delving into euthanasia and suicide in general. Amour explores the same elements of suicide that Happy End does, the only differences being the pieces it uses to do so. Haneke’s previous works bleed into this, with remnants of Time of the Wolf, Funny Games, and Code Unknown all present and these influences are appreciated and well placed. Amour may be periodically obscure and potentially tiringly slow, but Amour is deeply beautiful and touching in many ways.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
8
MarcDoyleJan 5, 2013
It's an excellent film in that it made me re-evaluate my perspectives on aging, aging relatives, and the potential for love and compassion on behalf of care-givers. Riva, the wife, is tremendous, and Huppert as the caring by slightly-naiveIt's an excellent film in that it made me re-evaluate my perspectives on aging, aging relatives, and the potential for love and compassion on behalf of care-givers. Riva, the wife, is tremendous, and Huppert as the caring by slightly-naive daughter is also excellent. I wanted more from the actor playing the husband, but otherwise, it's a solid piece of art. It's also not a film that I'd recommend to many. You have to know what you're getting into.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
BHBarryJan 5, 2013
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
wishmasterJan 6, 2014
Amour is definitely a story that shows the reality when you are facing the inevitable death, a hard story where the decisions of the love of your life are the backbone of your future on earth.
Amour definitely go down in history as one ofAmour is definitely a story that shows the reality when you are facing the inevitable death, a hard story where the decisions of the love of your life are the backbone of your future on earth.
Amour definitely go down in history as one of the rawest films, where Emmanuelle Riva definitely made the best performance of the year. Sorry Jennifer Lawrence, the Oscar but I gave it away.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
Regal4point1Feb 3, 2013
It is easy to lose sight of what love truly is. We toss it out recklessly, professing our love for sandwiches and video games. Amour does not shy away from the ugliness of love, as we often do, and instead embraces everything that encompassesIt is easy to lose sight of what love truly is. We toss it out recklessly, professing our love for sandwiches and video games. Amour does not shy away from the ugliness of love, as we often do, and instead embraces everything that encompasses a fulfilling, long-lasting relationship. It can be difficult to watch, because it presents its plot with subtlety and shies away from sentimentality. This approach may be challenging for some viewers, and unaffecting to some, but there is a poetic quality to this work that it may be impossible to not appreciate it.

The plot revolves around a musical elderly couple that must face the inevitability of death. Amour's brutal honesty about the subject is portrayed brilliantly by its two leads, both of who deserve award recognition for their work. Their relationship always remains strong throughout this endeavor, although they share different views of how this should play out. You can hardly blame them when they maltreat each other, since the situation is bound to evoke this sort of result. While the rest of the movie is quiet and meditative, the ending in particular brings such a bittersweet warmth through its ambiguity and artistic sensibilities that I was genuinely brought to tears. The film will stay with you after its conclusion, however, and it is sure to spark discussion and leave a lasting impression on you.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
5
EdeltraudOct 25, 2013
OK, good to have a topic like getting old and doing it up real, but the director did many really annoying things that served no purpose. Like five minutes of looking out on a theater audience, an old dude chasing a pigeon for half an hour,OK, good to have a topic like getting old and doing it up real, but the director did many really annoying things that served no purpose. Like five minutes of looking out on a theater audience, an old dude chasing a pigeon for half an hour, panning paintings for half a dog's life.
This film needed to have some flamboyant or different characters. everyone was the same morose one-note. The neighbors, kids, students, nurses. Geesh.
I'm very sympathetic to the story, have lived through many passings of aged parents and even a couple of contemporaries..but we had a lot more laughter and upbeat moments..
I kind of agree with the guy who said it was like sitting in a nursing home all night. I'm sure glad I didn't see this at the theater. Good performance by the old lady, but way too much artsie by the director.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
mrniceAug 25, 2013
Normally I'd rate 9/10 for a really amazing film. This one understated and does not try to impress or act for you. It just is. And the thing that is in this film is something very very close to 'real'. The story of old age is important sinceNormally I'd rate 9/10 for a really amazing film. This one understated and does not try to impress or act for you. It just is. And the thing that is in this film is something very very close to 'real'. The story of old age is important since Europe is facing some decades of 'more elderly than young people'. There will probably be lots of (similar to) these stories around Europe in the coming times. I could give the film anything from 5 to 10. But since it's original, perfectly crafted, heartfelt, sympathetic, it's a rare thing, a rare thing that can remind us and teach us something we should not (imagine to) flee from.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
beingryanjudeSep 1, 2014
A dark and poignant look at love - strengthened by its writing and performance from Emmanuelle Riva. Amour is one of the French films that distracts you from your life.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
lahaine2012Apr 10, 2013
Amour was an incredibly moving love story, from the masterful Michael Haneke. Its hard to imagine that a film about two geriatric lovers, told almost entirely in an apartment could be so enthralling. But it was! This is piece of art mayAmour was an incredibly moving love story, from the masterful Michael Haneke. Its hard to imagine that a film about two geriatric lovers, told almost entirely in an apartment could be so enthralling. But it was! This is piece of art may easily bore some and its surely not for everyone, but it is very easy to appreciate it for what it is and what it delivers. On that note Emmanuel Riva gave a fantastic performance, as well as Jean-Louis Trintignant. Filmed with simplicity, Amour was a very dense film that challenges its viewers in every way.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
charlieW24Feb 22, 2013
'Amour' is a tough one. On the one hand, 'Amour' is beautifully acted (particularly Emmanuelle Riva), impeccably directed, and wonderfully crafted and written. On the other hand, in terms of entertainment, its slow, it drags, and it's by no'Amour' is a tough one. On the one hand, 'Amour' is beautifully acted (particularly Emmanuelle Riva), impeccably directed, and wonderfully crafted and written. On the other hand, in terms of entertainment, its slow, it drags, and it's by no means an exciting topic. But, all of that is drowned out by 'Amour's' true beauty. Describing it in a few words? Devastatingly beautiful.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
Nesbitt10Aug 21, 2013
This beautifully-handled, deeply devastating work is all about the most human issue of all: inevitably and collectively, we're all food for worms. Won an Oscar in 2013 for Best Foreign Language Film of the year.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
TheWalrus2000Mar 11, 2013
In my opinion its not a best picture contender, but Amour still brings a very strong plot and a direction that wil go down in history as one of the best ever.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
1
ariel84Mar 2, 2013
haneke's "white ribbon" was magnificent. deserved every accolade. 'amour', mais non. emmanuelle riva, oui. very, very overrated film, especially in comparison the haneke's earlier work. pretty much a big yawn.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
fiabegFeb 11, 2013
Georges and Anne love each other. However, the film director gives us a mixed-up message regarding their relationship. At the beginning of the film, when the couple is at the kitchen table, Georges sees that the sugar bowl is empty, complainsGeorges and Anne love each other. However, the film director gives us a mixed-up message regarding their relationship. At the beginning of the film, when the couple is at the kitchen table, Georges sees that the sugar bowl is empty, complains to her and gets upset. Moments later he gets irritated with her when she does not understand something he is talking about. Then they start to argue. Days later, when she is sick and he tries to give her some water, she gets angry and reacts in an unexpected manner. Georges response to her is shocking. Is this the first time, or has he done it before? This couple loves each other in their own particular way. They are not physically affectionate, I don’t think they kiss during the whole movie, I could be wrong. They don’t have either a loving extended family. Georges caresses a pigeon to get the tenderness he does not have. Georges face expression does not change the whole movie. He has a permanent expression of concern and numbness. He is empty, he is not, in the true sense of the word, alive. He is simply performing the task that has been handed to him. The title of the movie is “Amour” (Love). However when you leave the movie theater the last feeling you have is a loving feeling. You feel numb, empty, like Georges. It is like he has come out from the screen and swallowed you and you have become part of him. I think that this is an outstanding achievement of the director of the film. To have the ability to put the audience in such a mood. I think a very important aspect of the movie is to make you feel what Georges is feeling. Everything is going slow, you are most of the time in the corner of one room or at the bedside, there is almost not furniture, it is kind of dark.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
orsonmcnabFeb 13, 2013
Amour is a formal masterpiece, which is not to say it isn't also a transporting cinematic experience. The characters are beautifully drawn and create empathy in the audience without resorting to banal cliches. Brilliant.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
dizzy103Mar 19, 2013
This is an outstandingly moving film, drawing on the insatiable taboo of mental health. The acting is sharp, clever and, above all, very convincing. Without question clutching at the heart strings, this frightfully stark and expressive filmThis is an outstandingly moving film, drawing on the insatiable taboo of mental health. The acting is sharp, clever and, above all, very convincing. Without question clutching at the heart strings, this frightfully stark and expressive film will leave even the hardest of minds in a pensive mood, at the very least.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
PuciferJun 2, 2013
In a year when two of the most critically acclaimed films were revisionist propaganda (lies) produced by the CIA, it is reassuring that at least some filmmakers are still dedicated to telling the truth. There isn't a false note in "Amour."In a year when two of the most critically acclaimed films were revisionist propaganda (lies) produced by the CIA, it is reassuring that at least some filmmakers are still dedicated to telling the truth. There isn't a false note in "Amour." It's not an easy film to watch, but at least it is an honest one.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
UtopianStuffJul 3, 2013
The story is so masterfully told, it's not even funny. It's heartbreaking, depressing, beautiful and lovely. It's told in the most stylish of ways and it's just masterful. Its beautifully crafted, and radiantly acted.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
AliBenzekriJun 18, 2013
This is Perfection Heartbreaking story about love
Haneke is a genius his work is Masterful and poignant Trintignant and Riva were out of this world what a performances a stunning work
Words cannot describe my passion about thisThis is Perfection Heartbreaking story about love
Haneke is a genius his work is Masterful and poignant Trintignant and Riva were out of this world what a performances a stunning work
Words cannot describe my passion about this Masterpiece you must watch it to feel the intensity os this magnificent and sad story… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
sebastian1Aug 4, 2013
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I really loved this movie, it was a feeling explosion; there is nothing wrong in this movie; i felt the pain that expressed the old woman, but at the same time i saw the love between both of them. I recommend you to see this movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
poewilsonFeb 6, 2014
Michael Haneke does not make films to entertain. He makes films to jar the audience to make you feel unease as you partake in what is quite often a tragic journey. Which Amour is to a tee. There is no moment of hope or redemption to be foundMichael Haneke does not make films to entertain. He makes films to jar the audience to make you feel unease as you partake in what is quite often a tragic journey. Which Amour is to a tee. There is no moment of hope or redemption to be found in this piece, but in this tragic endeavour we are given the opportunity to partake in a selfless love, as if to say that tragedy is only as such if you allow to be, but beauty and tragedy are in fact one in the same.
I thoroughly enjoyed this film and would honestly give it a 9 in my opinion, however the Poe Scale says.
Acting: 2/2
Cinematography: 1.5/2
Editing: 1.5/2
Effects and Design 1/2
Writing: 2/2… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
PfenderStrat621Apr 5, 2015
A subtle masterpiece with incredible directing, themes, script, and acting. Michael Haneke it is one of the most flawless directors. He presented everything in a thought-provoking, unforgettable, relatable and subtle way that it was justA subtle masterpiece with incredible directing, themes, script, and acting. Michael Haneke it is one of the most flawless directors. He presented everything in a thought-provoking, unforgettable, relatable and subtle way that it was just impossible for me to not give credit to it. I am just giving it a nine because i had just one subjective issue, in some elements of the movie, i wanted them to be a little less subtle and more notable. But apart from that this movie is amazing, and i don't understand why a lot of user reviews were saying it was boring; maybe it wasn't the most entertaining movie ever but it is really entertaining and mesmerizing. I highly recommend it!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
MattBrady99Jan 26, 2022
"Things will go on, and then one day it will all be over."

Director Michael Haneke is a master of horror and showing us our greatest fear, which so happens to be a part of life.

A sensitive and devastating love story.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
migaspintoAug 5, 2015
This simple and honest film represents the truth. And there's no one like Michael Haneke to do it with this perfection. Truly masterpiece from the one of the best directors of our time: Michael Haneke. Should be viewed and reviewed.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
EpicLadySpongeMar 6, 2016
It's a side-scrolling movie that just keeps on going and there's no reverse button on this movie. Once the movie ends, you have two options. One to play the entire movie again or two to reverse until you get to the beginning.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
amheretojudgeAug 10, 2018
chillingly beautiful to the core..

Amour 4 And A Half Out Of 5 Amour is a character driven feature about an old couple that goes through their last phase of the unbroken love when a tragic incident leaves them by shook. The construction ofchillingly beautiful to the core..

Amour

4 And A Half Out Of 5

Amour is a character driven feature about an old couple that goes through their last phase of the unbroken love when a tragic incident leaves them by shook. The construction of the world depicted in here is so mesmerizing that despite of being restrained within four walls; literally, it is thoroughly busy and competent. Despite of having such bold moves on the chess board, none of them seems to have broken any sort of rule; the audience is never left cheated which often happens whilst leaping few turns. The chemistry is without any doubt, some of the best that the cinema had to offer to the audience and not due to its soothing tone and sweetness involved in it but its three dimensional perspective towards each little things. The writing is genuinely moving, emotionally manipulative and adaptive which leaves the audience in an awe of it; the metaphorical pigeon will haunt you even after the curtain drops. It is rich on technical aspects like the d.o.p., camera work and detailed production design. Smarter sound designing, alluring background score and the ingenious structure of the script are the high points of the feature. Haneke; the screenwriter-director, is in his A game where his script does meet its brilliant execution skills which is rare and exquisite. But in the end, it's all about the act, it's all performance, and boy what an act they have staged. Riva and Trintignant are; similar to their characters, dependent on each other flaunting their behemoth talent on screen that can make viewers' eyes pop out. Amour is chillingly beautiful to the core and not for its knack of drawing out the emotions from the audience but for its loudness that it demands to be seek upon.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
TchaikovskyFeb 5, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Its a and outstanding Michael's Haneke masterpiece, one of the dramatically deepest films of this amuzing of the german director. his films aren't any comercial absolutly dramatic Filosophical. One of the best european director of our times, and oviusly he is Michael Haneke.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
GhostBurgerMar 11, 2019
Easily a contender for the best film of the decade, or hell, this century. This film is the quintessential exploration of the deepest part of the human experience: its end. Almost everyone can relate to this film, as they may have eitherEasily a contender for the best film of the decade, or hell, this century. This film is the quintessential exploration of the deepest part of the human experience: its end. Almost everyone can relate to this film, as they may have either experienced this situation themselves or been a witness of it. I remember witnessing a similar situation between my father and grandmother, and I was too young to understand the weight of the situation at the time, but regardless, this film was deeply moving for me. Emmanuelle Riva earned a much deserved Oscar nomination for her masterful performance, and Jean-Louis Trintignant's work here is also astounding. Needless to say, the film excels on all technical bases, as this is a Michael Haneke production, and the cinematography and use of symbolism is absolutely beautiful and poetic. But more importantly, this is a wildly powerful and compassionate story that needs to be seen by all. I can easily call this film a masterpiece.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
DawdlingPoetNov 23, 2021
This is a tough watch at times. Its quite touching, with the 2 main characters clearly being in a loving relationship. The acting is good and the dialogue is poignant at times. Its a thoughtful watch, with a bit of a slow plot pace but asThis is a tough watch at times. Its quite touching, with the 2 main characters clearly being in a loving relationship. The acting is good and the dialogue is poignant at times. Its a thoughtful watch, with a bit of a slow plot pace but as time moves on, we get more of an idea of how deeply in love and reliant on one another the 2 main characters are. I found myself feeling quite sorry for the husband, the situation he finds himself in. This is a bit of a sobering watch but its certainly a good watch. I'd recommend this film, yes.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
0
HonestCommDec 19, 2020
This movie 94 / 8.1 for what? There is lots of movie better than this. If we give points to movies we should compare them other movies. This movie should be short film. There is no reason or message telling to audince in two hours...
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
AssPussiMar 8, 2022
A perfect storm of a motion picture, with an icy, immaculate director unexpectedly taking on deeply emotional subject matter
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
More From This Movie

95 Critic Reviews

8.1 User Reviews

Details & Credits|Trailers

Current Movie Releases
By MetascoreBy User Score
1 81 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
2 77 Project Hail Mary
3 75 Send Help
4 73 Hoppers
5 72 The Sheep Detectives
SEE ALL
Essential Links
New on Amazon Prime Video
New on Netflix
Coming Soon to DVD/Blu-ray
SEE ALL