Farewell Amor

"Farewell Amor" is a both touching and ravishing drama that tells poetically about the challenges of immigration, family, and self-discovery. Directed by Ekwa Msangi, it's about the story of an Angolan family reuniting in New York City after 17 years apart. Jayme Lawson, Zainab Jah, and Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine all turn in fine performances as the beleaguered parents, daughters, and sons trying to adjust to their new lives. Intimacy and realism are further added to by Msangi's handling of the narrative herself, one that keeps rigorously tight focus on the feelings of her characters and culture conflicts. Through its folk story-like plot, its balanced characters, and moving cinematography, "Farewell Amor" becomes a very powerful portrayal of love, strength, family bonding.