The Dry — A performance that leans too heavily on its own weight

Spoiler-free review.

The main character's frustration feels real, but some key moments don't dig deep enough emotionally. The dry setting is reflected in the dialogue, which sometimes falls back on clichés instead of exploring more subtle ideas. The central mystery is interesting, but the ending doesn't have enough urgency to feel satisfying.

The direction has trouble balancing the slow build-up with parts that feel rushed or out of place. The music and sound are simple, which leaves some emotional moments feeling underdeveloped. The pacing slows down in the second act, where side stories take attention away from the main conflict.

The main character's actions often don't have clear reasons behind them, making their choices harder to follow. The supporting actors aren't given much to work with, so there's little room for nuance or character growth. Some dialogue feels forced, especially in tense scenes that rely too much on explanation.

The film has some tense moments, but it doesn't have the emotional heart needed to keep the story moving forward. The setting is used well but doesn't really connect to the characters' motivations or conflicts. Even with its flaws, The Dry has a strong idea that's only partly brought to life.

2020 · English. Film details

— Desly