Ralph Fiennes and Jessica Chastain star in John Michael McDonagh’s ‘The Forgiven’ which unfolds like a murder mystery expect we know who the murderer is. On their way to an extravagant weekend party in Morocco, the unhappy couple run over a young boy. Too wrapped up in their own first world problems, the pair as well as the party’s hosts and guests gossip and conspire behind each other’s backs. While the frivolous weekend activities continue with little regard to the death, there is a clear class divide between the Moroccans and the rich bourgeoisie who occupy the party. Although a little too forced, the arrogance of the rich Europeans and Americans in comparison to the poorly treated Moroccan “servants” as David (Ralph Fiennes) calls themselves serves as a reminder of colonial power that still lingers within the world even in the present. Each character is somewhat alluring yet equally unlikeable, which is not necessarily bad. Some of the most interesting characters on screen can be almost villainous yet they capture the audience’s attention. However, in ‘The Forgiven’, many of the villainous character fall flat and fail to serve more purpose than ‘arrogant rich people get what they deserve’. On the other hand, the film has some beautiful cinematography and great acting from all the cast. It would be great if the story had a little bit more depth and character development but overall, it was an enjoyable watch.
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