FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://www.msbreviews.com/movie-reviews/women-talking-spoiler-free-review-lff-2022

"Women Talking holds a lovely score by Hildur Guðnadóttir and features truly mesmerizing performances - Claire Foy being a clear standout - with emotionally powerful monologues that can break even the least sensitive viewer.

Sarah Polley's exceptionally written and choreographed screenplay tremendously enriches the primary debate driven by the fully developed characters, where trauma, religion, acceptance, forgiveness, revenge, and power are some of the most memorable themes. The... read the rest.

A thought provoking and moving, truly remarkable film. Could have been made with such dryness but Sarah Polley's inventive direction and incredible script combine wonderfully. Wisely chooses to be both gutting and uplifting. The discussions brought up are fascinating and not a single line of dialogue is wasted. All delivered by an outstanding cast, with Jessie Buckley being the best in show in a nuanced and fierce performance. One of the best of the year.

I found this to be a curiously compelling drama that takes us to a fictional town where the women meet to decide how best to combat the brutality being routinely visited upon them. They must evaluate the pros and cons of staying and forgiving, of fighting back - or of just getting out of the place. Each position has some merit, and there is no clear cut solution as they convene in an hayloft and, with the help of their unassuming school teacher "August" (Ben Whishaw), come to this most difficult of decisions. Now I will admit to being somewhat confused as to exactly whom they were in fear of, a... read the rest.

With this film, Sarah Polley joins the club of world-class directors.

In a film that could have been way too talky, there is humor and pathos; there is character development; there is thoughtful movement and brilliant timing. The great acting and directing make this a truly delightful, emotional film to watch.

If that weren't enough, it explores all the topics: religion, power, gender, rape, and virtual slavery.

By: Louisa Moore / www.ScreenZealots.com

Writer / director Sarah Polley brings novelist Miriam Toews‘ acclaimed novel to the screen in “Women Talking,” a story that, despite its secluded religious colony setting, has themes that ring true throughout America’s history of antiquated patriarchal systems. It’s a film about the strength of women and their ability to work together despite differing perspectives, opinions, and ideas about faith and life. This is a talky film with difficult subject matter, dialogue, and situations (it’s important to note that while the descriptions are vivid, no... read the rest.