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Generally favorable reviews - based on 7 Critics What's this?

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  • Summary: Bilal, a 17-year-old Kurdish refugee, has struggled his way through Europe for the last three months, trying to reunite with his girlfriend, who recently emigrated to England. But his journey comes to an abrupt halt when he is stopped by authorities in Calais, on the French side of the Channel. Left with no other alternatives, he decides to swim across. Bilal goes to the local swimming pool to train, where he meets Simon, a middle-aged swimming instructor in turmoil over his imminent divorce. Simon agrees to help Bilal, hoping to win back the affection of his wife, who does volunteer work helping immigrants. But what begins as a relationship based on self interest, develops into something much bigger than Simon could ever have imagined, as he too will ultimately risk everything to reach happiness. (Film Movement) Expand
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 7
  2. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. Reviewed by: V.A. Musetto
    Jul 1, 2011
    75
    Has its share of clichés and contrivances. Fortunately, compensation is provided by strong performances by veteran actor Vincent Lindon as the coach and newcomer Firat Ayverdi as the refugee.
  2. Reviewed by: Jay Weissberg
    Jul 1, 2011
    70
    Though the issue of illegal immigration is nothing new in French cinema, Welcome makes auds care deeply for its absorbing characters.
  3. Reviewed by: Stephen Holden
    Jul 1, 2011
    70
    Compelling, finely balanced immigration drama.
  4. Reviewed by: David Fear
    Jul 1, 2011
    60
    Francophiles understand that Vincent Lindon's presence in any film is a bonus, as few actors know how to translate sad-eyed, macho gruffness into so many different flavors.

See all 7 Critic Reviews

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