The Secret History (2019) Review in 2025
The Secret History is a psychological thriller that follows a group of privileged college students who commit a murder, and the consequences that follow.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
No, this movie is not suitable for family viewing due to its mature themes, violence, and strong language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of psychological thrillers and drama. However, it's not particularly suitable for family viewing due to its mature themes and strong language. It's best enjoyed in a theater or streaming service with a strong focus on drama and suspense.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around Richard Papen, a young man from a working-class family who gains admission to an elite college in New England. He becomes infatuated with a group of charismatic students who study classical literature, and he eventually becomes part of their inner circle. However, their obsession with the classics leads them to commit a heinous crime, and the movie explores the aftermath of their actions.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-written, but it feels a bit predictable at times. The characters' motivations and actions are believable, but the plot twists are not entirely surprising.
acting8.00/10
The acting is superb, with each cast member delivering a strong performance. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, and their characters' relationships feel authentic.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with each one having their own unique personality and backstory. The cast delivers strong performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
direction7.00/10
The direction is solid, but it feels a bit uninspired at times. The pacing is well-balanced, but the cinematography is not particularly noteworthy.
cinematography6.00/10
The cinematography is adequate, but it's not particularly memorable. The camera work is steady, but the lighting and color palette are not particularly striking.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Secret History is a thought-provoking and engaging movie that explores complex themes and characters. The cast delivers strong performances, and the story is well-written and well-paced.
Cons
The movie feels a bit predictable at times, and the cinematography is not particularly noteworthy. However, these minor flaws do not detract from the overall experience.
Notable Quotes
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."
"We are all capable of greatness, but we must first learn to recognize our own mediocrity."
