Germany, Morocco
3.5 OUT OF 4 STARS
Sometimes happiness is merely perceived than actually achieved. In a troubled world, delusion trumps reality.
Writer-director Michael Dreher develops a well-crafted story of intrigue as a shady deal unfolds across the Strait of Gibraltar. As a German woman ferries from Spain to Morocco in search of a precious commodity, she guards her person and purse well.
A heavy cloud hovers over the exchange, as the woman's Moroccan counterpart is obligated to maintain a distant demeanor. Cinematographer Yann Philippe Blumers creates a dark and cautious mood that reflects the internal conflict that battles selfish desire.
The small acting crew is somber yet wholly engaging. Their characters' senses of morality shift with need, providing the foundation for a film that provides answers on a need-to-know basis.