Numbness

About This Movie

Numbness (2019) threads a delicate narrative through the life of Jalal, a philosophy dropout grappling with her sister's complex mental health struggles. The film's atmosphere is thick with existential dread, elegantly balancing moments of intimacy and despair. The pacing is contemplative—sometimes slow, allowing the weight of each scene to settle. What stands out is the rawness of the performances, particularly the emotional depth portrayed in Jalal's interactions with her sister Mary and Shahrokh, the husband entangled in his own vices. The practical effects are subtle, enhancing the storytelling without overshadowing it. There's a sense of isolation and yearning that permeates the film, making it a haunting exploration of familial ties and the search for understanding amidst chaos.

Subtle exploration of mental illnessStrong character-driven narrativeInteresting use of practical effects