An Ordinary Man

An Ordinary Man, directed by Brad Silberling and released in 2017, brings together a compelling cast including Academy Award winner Sir Ben Kingsley, Hera Hilmar, and Peter Serafinowicz. The movie delivers an intense narrative that plunges into the complex realm of moral ambiguity. Sir Ben Kingsley's portrayal of a flawed protagonist and his inner turmoil anchors the film, showcasing the seasoned actor’s dynamic skills.

The film unfolds in Belgrade, Serbia, where Kingsley’s character (a war criminal aptly devoid of a stated name) is hiding from international authorities. Veiled under layers of reticence, this unnamed character carries the darkness of his past deeds producing fascinating layers of complexity for viewers to unpack. Kingsley’s character has been accused of countless war crimes; he represents a notorious and reviled figure across the globe, hence his secluded life.

An Ordinary Man revolves around an unusual relationship that unravels unexpectedly. Series of swift events bring a young maid, Tanja, played by Hera Hilmar - an actress known for the films like Anna Karenina and The Ottoman Lieutenant - into the life of the unnamed war criminal. Initially introduced as someone who will ensure his basic needs are met in hiding, Tanja gradually assumes a much more vital role. As the film progresses, the duo forms a dysfunctional yet symbiotic relationship, becoming dependent on each other in the most extraordinary ways.

Tanja, through her say-it-as-she-sees-it attitude, becomes a mirror for the war criminal to gaze at his past, present, and possible future. Hilmar’s performance gives Tanja a vitality that interacts powerfully with Kingsley’s character, reaching a profound depth in their on-screen relationship. As the movie unfurls, Tanja becomes a catalyst for events that push the narrative of the story forward.

The beauty of this film lies not only in the dynamic between its two principals but also in its visual storytelling. Director Brad Silberling, who also wrote the screenplay, skillfully employs the cityscape of Belgrade to serve as a third character in the story. The cinematography of An Ordinary Man lends an atmospheric quality that intensifies the themes of secrecy, isolation, and the way past atrocities can haunt the present.

Aside from Kingsley and Hilmar, the film also features Peter Serafinowicz. Known for his roles in movies like Guardians of the Galaxy and Shaun of the Dead, he stands out in his performance as Miro, a valuable link to the outside world for the unnamed war criminal.

The film deliberately takes its time to unfold, focusing on the connections and disconnections between its main characters rather than ramping up the action. The emphasis on dialogue and dynamics allows the movie to explore its themes in a way that feels both honest and unsettling. An Ordinary Man asks its audience to think and reflect on the blurred lines of right and wrong, the terrifying reality of war crimes, and the role humanity plays in forgiveness and redemption.

The film’s themes of fugitive existence, the burden of terrible deeds, and the complexity of personal relationships make An Ordinary Man a thought-provoking drama. The brilliant performances by Kingsley and Hilmar enhance Silberling's vision, making the movie an involving and unforgettable cinematic experience.

An Ordinary Man dives deep into the character study of a man burdened with his past atrocities who is living a life on the run. Simultaneously, it portrays the complexity of a unique relationship and how it develops under rather extraordinary circumstances. The film offers a compelling narrative that will resonate deeply with viewers who appreciate character-driven stories and cerebral themes. An Ordinary Man, with its potent performances and compelling storyline, invites audiences on an intriguing journey into the murkiest corners of the human psyche. This tale of redemption, self-discovery, and the struggle for anonymity is a riveting watch for all cinema enthusiasts.