Beloved (1998) Review in 2025
Beloved is a psychological horror film based on Toni Morrison's novel of the same name. The movie follows Sethe, a former slave who is haunted by the ghost of her dead daughter.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
No, due to its mature themes and graphic content.
CineReview Recommendation
Beloved is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film, but it may not be suitable for all audiences due to its mature themes and graphic content. Viewers who enjoy drama, horror, and thriller films may appreciate its complexity and nuance.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around Sethe, a former slave who is haunted by the ghost of her dead daughter, Denver. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the ghost is a manifestation of Sethe's guilt and trauma. The film explores themes of motherhood, slavery, and the supernatural.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-developed, but it can be slow-paced at times. The themes of motherhood, slavery, and the supernatural are well-explored, but some viewers may find them disturbing.
acting9.00/10
The acting is excellent, particularly from Oprah Winfrey and Thandie Newton. They bring depth and nuance to their characters, and their performances are memorable.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, particularly Sethe and Denver. However, some characters feel underutilized, and their motivations are not fully explained.
direction8.00/10
Jonathan Demme's direction is solid, but some scenes feel disjointed and lacking in tension. The pacing is uneven, and some viewers may find it difficult to follow.
cinematography7.00/10
The cinematography is good, but it can be overly reliant on dark colors and shadows. Some scenes feel overly stylized, and the use of CGI is noticeable.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Beloved is a powerful and emotional film that explores complex themes and features excellent performances from its cast. The cinematography is visually stunning, and the direction is solid.
Cons
The pacing can be uneven, and some scenes feel disjointed and lacking in tension. The use of CGI is noticeable, and some characters feel underutilized.
Notable Quotes
"I am not a ghost. I am a woman."
"You your father's child, and your father's father's child, and yours."
