Review of The Promise (2016)
The Promise (2016) is a sweeping historical drama that seeks to shed light on the harrowing events of the Armenian Genocide, blending romance, tragedy, and political intrigue. Directed by Terry George, the film is a poignant attempt to recount a piece of history that remains under-explored in mainstream cinema, while also offering a compelling narrative that revolves around love and survival amidst unspeakable horrors.
Set against the backdrop of the crumbling Ottoman Empire during World War I, The Promise follows the story of Michael (Oscar Isaac), an Armenian medical student who moves to Constantinople to study. There, he becomes entangled in a love triangle with a beautiful Armenian woman, Ana (Charlotte Le Bon), and a pᴀssionate American journalist, Chris (Christian Bale). The film expertly weaves the tension between the characters’ personal relationships and the increasingly violent political landscape, creating a narrative that is both intimate and monumental.
Oscar Isaac shines in the lead role of Michael, bringing a sense of quiet determination to his character, a man torn between love and loyalty to his people. His portrayal of a young man caught in a time of crisis is one of the film’s greatest strengths, as he navigates love, loss, and survival with dignity and strength. Charlotte Le Bon also delivers a strong performance as Ana, whose love for Michael is put to the ultimate test as the world around her descends into chaos. Christian Bale, while playing a less central role than the others, adds depth and sincerity to the role of Chris, a man driven by the desire to expose the truth.
The romance at the heart of The Promise is undeniably moving, but it is not the central focus of the film. The true heart of the movie lies in its depiction of the brutality and inhumanity of the Armenian Genocide. The film does not shy away from showing the horrific consequences of the events, and it powerfully conveys the unimaginable suffering faced by the Armenian people during this dark chapter of history. The atrocities are presented with sensitivity, without exploiting the tragedy, and the film forces viewers to confront the reality of what happened.
Visually, The Promise is stunning. Cinematographer Javier Aguirresarobe captures the beauty of the landscapes and the grandeur of the historical settings, but also emphasizes the darker, more sinister aspects of the narrative. The juxtaposition of peaceful scenes and the violence that eventually engulfs the characters creates a stark emotional contrast that enhances the impact of the film.
While the film’s historical accuracy and the portrayal of the genocide are critical, The Promise also falters in some areas. At times, the dialogue can feel overly melodramatic, and the pacing drags during certain sections of the film. Some critics have pointed out that while the story is emotionally resonant, it struggles to fully capture the complexity and depth of the historical events it seeks to portray. Still, the film is a commendable attempt to tell a story that many might not be familiar with, shedding light on the past with sincerity and compᴀssion.
The score, composed by Gabriel Yared, further enhances the emotional weight of the film, with sweeping orchestral music that complements the story’s intense drama. The music serves as an emotional guide throughout the film, underscoring the highs and lows of the characters’ journeys.
In conclusion, The Promise (2016) is a heartfelt and important film that attempts to shine a light on one of the darkest events in history while telling a personal story of love, loss, and survival. While it may not be without its flaws, the film’s strong performances, especially from Oscar Isaac and Charlotte Le Bon, and its unflinching depiction of the Armenian Genocide make it a must-see for those interested in both historical drama and powerful, emotional storytelling. It’s a film that challenges viewers to remember the past, understand its impact, and never forget the promise of justice and remembrance.
