The Boat Is Full (1981) Review in 2025
The Boat Is Full is a 1981 Swiss drama film that tells the story of a family who takes in a refugee from Vietnam, and the challenges they face as they try to integrate him into their lives.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and language, but it's a great choice for older kids and adults who want to explore complex social issues.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for its thought-provoking themes and strong performances. However, it's not a must-see, and viewers may find it a bit slow or overly dramatic at times.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film's plot revolves around the arrival of a Vietnamese refugee, Bui, who is taken in by a Swiss family, the Schmidts. As Bui struggles to adapt to his new life, he faces racism and hostility from the community, leading to a dramatic confrontation.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is well-crafted and thought-provoking, exploring complex themes like racism, xenophobia, and the challenges of integration. However, the pacing can be slow at times, which may test the patience of some viewers.
acting8.50/10
The acting is superb, with all the lead actors delivering strong performances. Isabelle Huppert, in particular, shines as the matriarch of the Schmidt family, bringing depth and nuance to her character.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and nuanced, with the lead actors delivering strong performances. However, some characters feel a bit one-dimensional, particularly the refugee, Bui, who could have benefited from more backstory and development.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision and a strong sense of pacing. However, some scenes feel a bit contrived or overly dramatic, which can detract from the overall impact of the film.
cinematography7.00/10
The cinematography is decent, but not particularly noteworthy. The use of lighting and camera angles is effective, but the overall visual style is a bit bland and unremarkable.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Strong performances, thought-provoking themes, and a well-crafted story.
Cons
Slow pacing, one-dimensional characters, and some contrived scenes.
Notable Quotes
"The world is not a safe place, but it's the only one we have."
"We can't just sit back and watch the world burn."
