It's Only Make Believe

It's Only Make Believe is a thought-provoking movie from Norway, released in 2013. This riveting drama film is crafted under the able direction of Arild Østin Ommundsen and is an enriching tale about crime, redemption, and the struggle for a normal life. The film showcases brilliant performances from actors including the admirable Silje Salomonsen, the notable Tomas Alf Larsen, and the impressive Egil Birkeland.

The story revolves around the protagonist, Jenny, played fearlessly by Silje Salomonsen. A small town girl at heart, Jenny finds herself entangled in a life of crime after an unexpected turn of events. A fateful event one night leads to unintended consequences. Jenny sees her life quickly spiral out of control, landing her in prison for a crime she didn't want to be a part of. However, she is released from prison after serving a 10-year sentence, signifying a potential turning point in her life washed with a past of regrets and hard truths.

Jenny’s world immediately becomes more complex as she is thrown back into society, grappling with her past while yearning for a fresh start. She aspires to lead a normal life, trying to avoid the path that led her astray. Being a mother to a daughter who was born while she was incarcerated adds another layer to her struggle for normalcy. Her determination to provide a better life for her daughter becomes her primary driving force, painting a poignant portrait of a mother's love.

Salomonsen’s portrayal of Jenny in It's Only Make Believe is nothing short of captivating. Her nuanced portrayal of a young woman traversing a rocky path to recovery is at once heart-wrenching and inspiring. Her desperation, coupled with her refusal to beg for sympathy, immerses audiences into her world, echoing a grim reality that remains overlooked.

Complementing Silje in this drama, Tomas Alf Larsen and Egil Birkeland deliver stellar performances. Larsen's understated performance adds depth to the narrative, while Birkeland's dynamic character brings an intriguing edge to the story. The cast, along with numerous supporting characters, provide an enveloping narrative that simultaneously keep the tensions high and empathies flowing.

The director, Arild Østin Ommundsen, skillfully threads together this tangled story with a raw and honest approach that doesn't shy away from making the audience uncomfortable. His innovative storytelling techniques and visual command keep the viewers engaged, infusing authentic human experiences into the narrative. His depiction of the gritty realities of life post-prison, blended with the emotional turmoil of re-entering society, is laudable.

Ommundsen has a knack for naturalistic performances, and this trait shines in It’s Only Make Believe. He uses the beautiful Norwegian landscape to highlight the contrast between outward calm and internal storm, adding another layer of narrative depth to this remarkable film. The cinematography is particularly noteworthy, with striking visuals that add to the stark yet serene tone of the movie.

It's Only Make Believe is suggestive of a tale of redemption, the search for forgiveness, and the struggle to find a sense of normalcy in a chaotic life. With its potent blend of realism and raw emotion, It’s Only Make Believe is an unflinching exploration of the human struggle to rebound from past mistakes and reinvent oneself amidst societal judgment. Further infused with elements of love, motherhood, and the innate desire for acceptance, this film presents a startling commentary on crime and its aftermath.

On the surface, It's Only Make Believe may seem like another crime drama; however, it offers an uncompromising look into the intricate emotional webs that humans can become ensnared in due to life-altering circumstances. The film is more than just crime and punishment – it's a moving portrayal of endurance, change, and the ultimate redemption amidst chaos.

In conclusion, It's Only Make Believe is a captivating, emotional drama filled with outstanding performances and a compelling narrative that leaves a lasting impact. It's a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, showing that everyone deserves a second chance and highlighting the need for acceptance and understanding regardless of past missteps. This unforgettable crime drama will keep you riveted until the end, ensuring you walk away both enlightened and moved.