The Goldfinch (2019) Review in 2025
The Goldfinch is a drama film based on the novel by Donna Tartt, following the story of Theo Decker, a young boy who survives a terrorist bombing that kills his mother. He becomes obsessed with a painting called The Goldfinch and embarks on a journey to uncover its secrets.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to mature themes, violence, and some strong language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of drama and thriller genres, but it may not be suitable for everyone due to mature themes and some strong language. It's best enjoyed in theaters for the stunning cinematography and immersive experience.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film explores Theo's complicated relationships with his father, his friend Boris, and his love interest, Kitsey. Along the way, he becomes embroiled in a world of art forgers, thieves, and collectors, all while struggling to come to terms with his past and his feelings about the painting.
Review Details
story7.00/10
The story is engaging and complex, but it meanders at times and could have been tightened up. The pacing is slow, but the payoff is worth it.
acting8.50/10
The acting is superb, with Ansel Elgort delivering a standout performance as Theo. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Nicole Kidman and Jeffrey Wright.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and nuanced, with Theo being a particularly compelling protagonist. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Ansel Elgort and Aneurin Barnard.
direction7.50/10
John Crowley does a great job of bringing the novel to life, but the film could have benefited from a more consistent tone. The cinematography is stunning, but the editing is sometimes jarring.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning visuals and a keen eye for detail. The use of color and lighting is particularly noteworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Goldfinch is a beautifully shot film with a complex and engaging story. The characters are well-developed and nuanced, and the acting is superb. The cinematography is breathtaking, and the use of color and lighting is particularly noteworthy.
Cons
The pacing is slow at times, and the tone could have been more consistent. The editing is sometimes jarring, and the film could have benefited from a more concise narrative.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a thief, I'm a collector."
"The Goldfinch is a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always beauty to be found."
"The painting is a symbol of hope, of beauty, of the human spirit."
