Cinema Society

WELCOME

Average
Rating

3.6

Tuesday, September 28, 2010, AMC La Jolla 12 Theatres

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

7:00PM: Cinema Chat with Andy, Auditorium 4

7:10PM: Introduction, Auditorium 4

7:15PM: Introduction, Auditorium 5

7:30PM: WELCOME Auditoriums 4 & 5

Discussion will follow screening in Auditorium 4

AMC La Jolla 12 Theatres

Winner, Grand Prize, Heartland Film Festival,

Winner, Audience Award, Warsaw International Film Festival

WELCOME

Welcome is an emotionally affecting drama about intersecting lives, unlikely friendships and the hope of new beginnings. Bilal, (Firat Ayverdi), a 17-year-old Kurdish refugee, has spent the last three months of his life traveling across Europe so he can reunite with his girlfriend, who recently emigrated to England. But his journey comes to an abrupt halt when he is stopped in Calais, on the French side of the Channel. Deciding to swim across, Bilal goes to the local swimming pool to train, where he meets Simon, (Vincent Lindon), a middle-aged swimming instructor in turmoil over his imminent divorce.

Despite their differences, the two men discover that they have much in common, and a strong bond emerges between them. Simon takes Bilal under his wing, realizing that he too must risk everything to reach happiness.

Running Time: 109 Minutes; Rated TBA

PLEASE NOTE: WELCOME is in French, English and Kurdish with English subtitles

Send a Comment

7-Oct-10: Mroe - Rating: 3

Though maybe unfair to the film, I just don't think I was in the right frame of mind or mood and so I thought the film was rather depressing (which I think a few do agree) but by the end I didn't feel there was any real redeeming message. Certainly not a bad film, just not my cup of tea...that evening.

1-Oct-10: Georgi - Rating: 4

Sure wish we had 1/2 points to give because I would really call this a 3.5 but glad to round up the number. Fascinated by the immigration issue and similarities world wide. Film is such a marvelous genre to learn about other cultures, social issues and relationships. Actually felt the end was quite hopeful as the swimming champion used the same words the hopeful Iranian kid did at the end: I'm coming... Hope is eternal, even in tragedy. A well made film of quality.

30-Sep-10: Rosemary - Rating: 5

A glimpse into a subculture I knew nothing about. Perfect pacing--yes, I loved the slow, careful telling of this story. Acting that was understated and powerful. Cinematography that made the darkest night glow. Love, remorse, impossible dreams, tragedy. A wonderful, touching film. This was one of those films that made me forget I was watching a movie. You picked a winner!

29-Sep-10: Katrina - Rating: 4

I thought the film "Welcome" was a welcoming choice this season. I liked its raw material into a realm I know very little about, then its unexpected ending. So many times we can see the ending in the first 10 minutes, but this film enjoyed taking us on a journey through the unknown throughout. The strength and power of "young love" was so evident and poignant, and unfortunately tragic, but I thought the story was told with restraint and patience so we could feel the journey with the characters. Good job Andy!

29-Sep-10: SMM - Rating: 2

I'm with you, DD. Depressing.

Also, a little slow. Maybe that is just me being "American" and losing patience with slow moving European films. Usually they're worth the wait though. This one just made me depressed.

29-Sep-10: judy s - Rating: 5

Now you're talking!

29-Sep-10: RichG - Rating: 3

The reality of life in France was made all to clear in this film. Foreigners are looked upon a less than human. This film brought their struggles and deprivation to life. The divorce gave Simon a new cause and a reason to move on. The young man had a dream and never realized his limitations. The script was well written and heartfelt. While not a masterpiece it was entertaining and thought provoking. Thank you Andy.

28-Sep-10: DD - Rating: 3

Between a two and three.

Depressing.

No one was happy in the entire movie. Not a single character.

And every Authority (police, immigration official, coast guard) was portrayed as mean, unfair, and uncaring.