A film destined to divide Manoel de Oliveira's fans but also to win him new ones, A Talking Picture is his simplest, most linear story in memory.
100
Christian Science MonitorDavid Sterritt
Christian Science MonitorDavid Sterritt
As a nonagenarian, de Oliveira is the world's oldest working filmmaker, and still one of the best. This is a lovely, lively, timely treat for the eyes and mind.
In both its intellectual reach and the elegant simplicity of its form, A Talking Picture bears resemblance to Andrei Sokurov's "Russian Ark."
88
Chicago TribuneMichael Wilmington
Chicago TribuneMichael Wilmington
It's a great film that, sadly, may be ignored by all but the most dedicated, knowledgable filmgoers.
80
Chicago ReaderJonathan Rosenbaum
Chicago ReaderJonathan Rosenbaum
Initially this seems naive and archaic, but it conceals a Buñuelian stinger in its tail.
80
The A.V. ClubNoel Murray
The A.V. ClubNoel Murray
De Oliveira wraps A Talking Picture with a simultaneous introduction and farewell--a bold curtain-dropper that's either a bleak joke or an imprecisely controlled scream of rage.
80
The Hollywood ReporterFrank Scheck
The Hollywood ReporterFrank Scheck
A thoughtful, provocative effort that makes up for its narrative failings with its astute philosophical musings.
75
New York PostV.A. Musetto
New York PostV.A. Musetto
Moves along its tranquil way until about five minutes before the closing credits, when it turns into a terrorist thriller.
70
Village VoiceDennis Lim
Village VoiceDennis Lim
Still astonishingly vital at 96, the Portuguese maestro Manoel de Oliveira here takes a becalmed trip through stormy waters.