Citizenfour (2014) Review in 2025
Citizenfour is a documentary film that follows the story of Edward Snowden, a former NSA contractor who leaked classified information about the US government's mass surveillance program.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
No, this documentary is not suitable for family viewing due to mature themes and some disturbing content.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is a must-see for anyone interested in politics, social justice, or true stories. It's a thought-provoking and engaging documentary that raises important questions about government surveillance and individual privacy.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film shows how Snowden, played by himself, worked with journalists Glenn Greenwald and Laura Poitras to expose the truth about the NSA's surveillance activities, leading to a global debate about privacy and security.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is engaging and thought-provoking, providing a detailed look at Snowden's life and the events leading up to the leak. The film raises important questions about government surveillance and individual privacy.
acting9.00/10
The acting is solid, with Snowden delivering a convincing performance as himself. The film also features strong performances from Greenwald and Poitras, who bring a sense of authority and expertise to their roles.
characters9.20/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, particularly Snowden, who is portrayed as a complex and nuanced individual. The film also features interviews with key figures in the story, including Greenwald and Poitras.
direction9.50/10
The direction is excellent, with Poitras using a range of techniques to create a sense of tension and urgency. The film's pacing is well-balanced, with a clear narrative thread throughout.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is effective, using a mix of handheld camera work and static shots to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The film's use of lighting is also noteworthy, particularly in the scenes featuring Snowden's interactions with Greenwald and Poitras.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's engaging story, well-developed characters, and excellent direction make it a standout documentary. The cinematography and acting are also noteworthy, with Snowden delivering a convincing performance as himself.
Cons
Some viewers may find the film's mature themes and disturbing content off-putting. Additionally, the film's pacing can be slow at times, particularly in the scenes featuring Snowden's interactions with Greenwald and Poitras.
Notable Quotes
"I don't want to live in a world where everything I say or do is recorded. That's not what I call living."
"I'm not a hero, I'm just a person who's trying to do the right thing."
