Is To See If I'm Smiling Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2007)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2007, To See If I'm Smiling 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 Israel is the only country in the world where 18-year-old girls are drafted for compulsory military service. 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: "Israel is the only country in the world where 18-year-old girls are drafted for compulsory military service. The frank testimonials of six female Israeli soldiers stationed in Gaza and the West Bank sees the young women revisit their tours of duty in the occupied territories, and share shocking moments of negligence, flippancy, immaturity and power-tripping."

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. The performance by Denis Kacenga is nothing short of transformative, providing an emotional anchor that tethers the film's more abstract concepts to a relatable human experience. Denis Kacenga captures the nuance of the script with a performance that will likely define their career for years to come.

The direction by Tamar Yarom is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 59 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 To See If I'm Smiling 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 mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 8.2/10 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, To See If I'm Smiling explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2007 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Tamar Yarom 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, To See If I'm Smiling is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Denis Kacenga or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, To See If I'm Smiling is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.