Terry George directs Oscar Isaac, Charlotte Le Bon and Christian Bale in this epic romance set around the Armenian massacre.

Worthy intentions, a strong cast and a Leanian epic sweep cannot help the overriding sensation that is purposefully aiming for solid rather than special. George’s earlier Hotel Rwanda had a real urgent, desperate energy distinctly missing here. Many of the soapy convulsions that bubble up are resolved by the very next scene, meaning the romance and tragedy never sustain themselves.

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