Is All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2017)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2017, All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Documentary category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into The film tells the story of Leon Agusta (1938-2015), a poet, cultural activist, and playwright who was born in Sigiran, Lake ManinJau, West Sumatra. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "The film tells the story of Leon Agusta (1938-2015), a poet, cultural activist, and playwright who was born in Sigiran, Lake ManinJau, West Sumatra. Leon’s craft was fueled by pain of the past from the tragedies, betrayals, and the many instances love has touched his life. His activism was driven by his love of his birthplace and the betterment of others. Semua Sudah Dimaafkan sebab Kita Pernah Bahagia sees Paul Agusta; Leon’s youngest son recounts what he remembers of his father as well as following him to trace back Leon’s early years to find the roots of his passion and pain to further know the complex individual that was his father, Leon Agusta."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Despite the inherent talent of Leon Agusta, the performance in All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy feels somewhat constrained by a narrative framework that doesn't fully exploit their range. There are flashes of brilliance, but the overall impact is muted.

The direction by Katia Engel is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 80 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2017 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Katia Engel respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Leon Agusta or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, All Is Forgiven, for We Have Been Happy is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.