Camera Obscura
User Score
8.5 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 6 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6

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  1. DianaB.
    Oct 15, 2003
    8
    Great filmmaking. terrific performances. I was exhausted, shocked and saddened by the end. But it grabbed me. It stands out as a unique film that makes you think. It reminded me of 70s dark films - risky and uncompromising. I wish it had more surprising plot twists, also I didn't understand the dream sequences very well. They were surreal and haunting. Hamlet Sarkissian is a unique voice in modern cinema. I wonder what's his next project.… Expand
  2. AndrewS.
    Oct 5, 2003
    5
    A film with much potential never rises above it's mediocracy. The production value was excellent though, even for a low budget film. Gil's performance, clearly the center emotional piece of the story, was riveting. I felt the plot points did not reach their full potential as I had hoped for. Consequently, the other characters did not extend any believability beyond their parts in the story. Being a writer myself, I simply expected more. But I think Hamlet has a talent for the camera. He just needs a better structured script next time. … Expand
  3. JakeG.
    Oct 6, 2003
    9
    It's cutting edge, avant gard. The only film that explores new forms. Like the Europeans Hamlet is the only filmmaker out there exploring and experimentaing. The script was not consistant, but at this point I don't even know if he wanted to make a narrative film. It seems exploring new cinematic forms and expressions were more of his goal. I had a cinematic ecstazy. Can't wait to see his next film. I hope next time he combines his talent for camera with a great screenplay.… Expand
  4. AliciaB.
    Dec 9, 2003
    9
    What an amazing film. I saw it accidentally. This director is an amazing artist. He blew my mind away. The only comment I have is that there were too many camera clicks. They were disturbing me. And some of the plot was a bit mandane. However what a brilliant idea. I have to say the director of this film and Sofia Coppola are our only hope. These two are unique. They are true artists. Another one is Clint Eastwood.… Expand

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
39 out of 100

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 5 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 5
  3. Negative: 1 out of 5
  1. Film Threat
    Reviewed by: Ron Wells
    70
    More "Heat" than "Eraserhead". It's all good. Just don't be disappointed if it's not what you were expecting. Try to enjoy this for what it is.
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  2. L.A. Weekly
    Reviewed by: Hazel-Dawn Dumpert
    40
    Sarkissian's script is both overwrought and undercooked, crammed with floridly senseless speeches.
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  3. Variety
    Reviewed by: Robert Koehler
    40
    Unable to blend artfilm with psychological thriller, writer-director Hamlet Sarkissian makes something opaque indeed out of Camera Obscura.
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