Die Fremde 2010

A.O. Scott, New York Times: It is frequently gripping and sincere in its intentions, but never quite as revelatory, or as devastating, as it should be. Read more

Scott Tobias, AV Club: Aladag isn't a particularly expressive filmmaker, and she hits a few bum notes toward the end that feel more like movie payoffs than real-life drama, but she tackles this story with surprising nuance and depth. Read more

Ty Burr, Boston Globe: A powerhouse melodrama that feels didactic and manipulative even as it rips your heart out. Read more

Betsy Sharkey, Los Angeles Times: There are times when the tension lags badly and the story loses its way as Umay spins between her worlds. Still, it's a worthy start, and Aladag's distinctive voice helps the film survive any dismay. Read more

V.A. Musetto, New York Post: Kekilli delivers a perfectly tuned performance. Too bad the script is often clunky and melodramatic, as the first-time director, Vienna-born Feo Aladag, tries to manipulate viewers' emotions. Read more

Andrew O'Hehir, Salon.com: Aladag's point, I think, is that no matter how righteous we may feel about this kind of zero-sum cultural collision, for the human beings involved it often results in unbearable tragedy. Read more

Walter V. Addiego, San Francisco Chronicle: There are some intense, moving sequences, but too much emotional badgering and a general shortage of finesse. Read more

Joe Williams, St. Louis Post-Dispatch: "When We Leave" has a predetermined arc that almost chokes its life, but for frustrated witnesses to this passion play, Kekilli offers redemption. Read more

James Adams, Globe and Mail: The whole sad enterprise is watchable because of Kekilli. Read more

Linda Barnard, Toronto Star: Unfortunately, Aladag was not as nuanced in her approach as her star. Read more

Nick Pinkerton, Village Voice: Kekilli, more than an unofficial spokeswoman for rebellious Euro-Muslim youth, sells a simple and deterministic story through her sheer presence and precise reaction shots. Read more

Mark Jenkins, Washington Post: Aside from its conclusion, "When We Leave'' is credible and well-observed. Read more