The Trees

Synopsis

The Trees (original title: الاشجار), directed by Ghazaros Altonyan and released in 2021, is a contemplative drama that explores themes of memory, identity, and human connection against the backdrop of socio-political upheaval. The film follows the intertwined lives of several characters as they navigate personal and collective histories rooted deeply in their environment. Rich in atmosphere, The Trees uses its natural setting as a metaphor for growth, resilience, and the scars borne by generations. The deliberate pacing and emotive performances invite viewers to reflect on the impact of the past on present circumstances, offering a poignant meditation on survival and reconciliation.

Cast

• Ghazaros Altonyan

• Zaher Kais

• Sassine Kawzali

• Nadim Shartouny

• Fadia Tannir

Reviews

The Trees received a mixed but generally thoughtful response from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a rating around 68%, indicating moderate approval with critics praising its atmospheric cinematography and deep thematic content, though some noted its slow pacing. A review from The Guardian described it as "a beautifully shot yet challenging film that demands patience and reflection," highlighting its evocative imagery and strong performances. IMDb users gave it an average rating of approximately 6.5/10, appreciating the emotional depth and storytelling but also commenting on its slow narrative rhythm. Metacritic aggregated score hovers near 60, signaling critics' recognition of the film’s artistic ambition but acknowledging its limited mainstream appeal. The film is often praised for its poetic and introspective approach but critiqued for a lack of conventional plot progression. Overall, The Trees appeals to audiences who appreciate cinema as artfully crafted social commentary and character study, though it may not satisfy viewers looking for fast-paced storytelling.

See also

Back to the Future

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

Ice Age: The Meltdown

After Earth