Miramax Films | Release Date: November 15, 2002
7.8
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 21 Ratings
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3
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7
TinaBNov 25, 2002
Okay ... this was, in fact, a generally good movie ... however, being Armenian myself, I felt as if though it somehow failed to educate those who STILL don't know the events that took place in 1915. There were so many different Okay ... this was, in fact, a generally good movie ... however, being Armenian myself, I felt as if though it somehow failed to educate those who STILL don't know the events that took place in 1915. There were so many different complications in the movie, and it made it confusing. The writer didn't clarify the association between some of the events, and what the symbolisms were and what they meant to Armenian people. Those who don't know the sacred Wedding Dance don't understand why that was such a degrading memory, and it could have been explained better. Also, the director knew what kind of audience he would be targeting and I felt as if though that whole sex scene between Celia and Raffi was completely and utterly inappropriate ... there was absolutely no point in that scene, at all. (It's kind of embarrassing when you're sitting next to an 80-year-old woman while that scene was in motion.) And what exactly did the marijuana have to do with anything? How did it affect the movie? I just don't know ... it IS better than nothing, and I am proud that finally a movie was made to educate others of my proud culture, but still ... the expectations were high, and I do feel failed ... if I somehow missed something and that is why my appreciation for the movie isn't as high as it should be, feel free to let me know... Thank You. Expand
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6
TinaBNov 25, 2002
Okay ... this was, in fact, a generally good movie ... however, being Armenian myself, I felt as if though it somehow failed to educate those who STILL don't know the events that took place in 1915. There were so many different Okay ... this was, in fact, a generally good movie ... however, being Armenian myself, I felt as if though it somehow failed to educate those who STILL don't know the events that took place in 1915. There were so many different complications in the movie, and it made it confusing. The writer didn't clarify the association between some of the events, and what the symbolisms were and what they meant to Armenian people. Those who don't know the sacred Wedding Dance don't understand why that was such a degrading memory, and it could have been explained better. Also, the director knew what kind of audience he would be targeting and I felt as if though that whole sex scene between Celia and Raffi was completely and utterly inappropriate ... there was absolutely no point in that scene, at all. (It's kind of embarrassing when you're sitting next to an 80-year-old woman while that scene was in motion.) And what exactly did the marijuana have to do with anything? How did it affect the movie? I just don't know ... it IS better than nothing, and I am proud that finally a movie was made to educate others of my proud culture, but still ... the expectations were high, and I do feel failed ... if I somehow missed something and that is why my appreciation for the movie isn't as high as it should be, feel free to let me know... Thank You. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
RefinedInsightsAug 11, 2023
Ararat, offers a complex and multi-layered examination of a critical period in history, with well-prepared depictions of Ottoman oppression, the Armenian Genocide, and the brave freedom fighters of the time. The film's historical scenes areArarat, offers a complex and multi-layered examination of a critical period in history, with well-prepared depictions of Ottoman oppression, the Armenian Genocide, and the brave freedom fighters of the time. The film's historical scenes are indeed its strength, providing insightful glimpses into events that were horrifying but well depicted; the Young Turks were the group that inspired the nazis, and seeing them portrayed in this light was justifiable.

However, Egoyan's ambitious narrative approach does lead to some complications. The intertwining story of a film premiere and a dysfunctional family tends to stray from the main subject, creating a tangled plot that doesn't always serve the characters or the central theme well. This choice is particularly puzzling considering that portrayals of Armenians in Hollywood are often unjustifiably unfavorable. It's a curious decision for Egoyan to add to this narrative, even though his directorial skill and good intentions are evident throughout the film.

Despite these shortcomings, "Ararat" is a decent watch for those interested in the historical context it explores. The film's strong commitment to historical accuracy and powerful scenes of Armenian resilience elevate it above its narrative flaws.

While "Ararat" may not fully succeed in its storytelling, its earnest efforts to shed light on a dark chapter of history and its well-crafted historical sequences make it a film worth considering.
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