Cast
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Lúcia Moniz
as Bela
Ruben Garcia
as Jota
Maisie Sly
as Lu
James Felner
as Diego
Sophia Myles
as Ann Payne
Kiran Sonia Sawar
as Anjali
Brian Bovell
as Social Services Officer
Jay Lycurgo
as Jay
Kem Croft
as Hassan
António Capelo
as Macário
Ângela Pinto
as Lurdes
Susanna Cappellaro
as Teacher
Geoffrey Kirkness
as Neighbour
Sian Abrahams
as Police Officer (1)
Danai Bouzala
as Postwoman
Crew
Director
- Ana Rocha de Sousa
Writer
- Aaron Brookner
- Paula Alvarez Vaccaro
- Ana Rocha de Sousa
Producer
- Rodrigo Areias
- Aaron Brookner
- Paula Alvarez Vaccaro
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Listen examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Ana Rocha de Sousa brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2020, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Listen took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 73 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 125 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2020, when this film is released:
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Listen shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Quiet, which focuses more on action than character development, Listen subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Mudito and Earth and Ashes explore similar territory, Listen stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 22, 2020
- Runtime: 1h 13m
- Revenue: $273,224
Where to Watch
