{"id":2023,"date":"2013-03-01T00:06:01","date_gmt":"2013-03-01T08:06:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-the-impossible-when-the-impossible-happens\/"},"modified":"2026-04-09T21:45:10","modified_gmt":"2026-04-09T19:45:10","slug":"review-the-impossible-when-the-impossible-happens","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-the-impossible-when-the-impossible-happens\/","title":{"rendered":"Review: The Impossible \u2013 When the Impossible Happens"},"content":{"rendered":"

Just as September 11, 2001, changed the world forever,<\/strong> the world was also profoundly impacted on Boxing Day 2004<\/strong> when the Japanese word<\/strong> Tsunami<\/em> entered global consciousness. The event demonstrated the raw, unstoppable power of nature, leaving devastation in Thailand<\/strong>, mirroring the impact of Hurricane Sandy in the USA.<\/p>\n

Approximately 500,000 Swedes visit and reside in Thailand annually<\/strong>, representing a significant presence. Many individuals likely know someone who was present or affected by what remains the most devastating tsunami in modern history<\/strong>. After eight years<\/strong>, we now have the first major cinematic exploration of this event<\/strong> – The Impossible<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The Bennett family, seeking respite from their demanding lives, arrive in Khao Lak at a beach hotel<\/strong> that can be described as luxurious<\/strong>. Dad Henry (Ewan McGregor<\/em>), mom Maria (Naomi Watts<\/em>), and their three sons are enjoying their vacation when tragedy strikes. A massive wave sweeps across the landscape, obliterating everything in its path<\/strong>, separating the family<\/strong> and initiating an unimaginable ordeal of human suffering and survival<\/strong>, as well as a desperate search for loved ones<\/strong> (within a chaotic environment, initially without power or reliable communication<\/em>).<\/p>\n

Spanish director JA (Juan Antonio) Bayona<\/strong> makes his (in some respects<\/em>) Hollywood debut with this film. Following his critically acclaimed work on The Orphanage<\/em><\/strong><\/a> (El Orfanato<\/em>), he now presents a film based on a true account<\/strong>, depicting the experiences of a Spanish family (named Belon, who consulted on this adaptation)<\/em>. To enhance accessibility and international appeal, the family’s nationality has been changed to British<\/strong>, allowing for the casting of Hollywood actors<\/strong> who may generate broader press coverage and audience interest.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Impossible<\/em><\/strong> is an immersive and intense experience<\/strong>, showcasing exceptional filmmaking prowess<\/strong>. Financed by a blend of EU and foreign (predominantly American<\/em>) investment, the production is largely Spanish<\/strong>, featuring remarkable special effects, sophisticated stunt work<\/strong>, and compelling cinematography<\/strong>. The opening sequence effectively establishes the tone<\/strong>, and when the tsunami strikes<\/strong>, the viewer is almost unable to breathe<\/strong> due to the intensity. Subsequently, the heartbreaking, visceral, and graphic second act<\/strong> focuses on the search for survivors.<\/p>\n

Having personally experienced a tsunami, or knowing someone who has, might make this film particularly challenging to watch. It is remarkably realistic<\/strong> and unflinchingly portrayed.<\/strong> The depiction of individuals being swept away by the wave<\/strong>, tossed about in the turbulent water<\/strong> and subjected to the dangers of debris<\/strong>, is disturbing<\/strong>. JA Bayona offers the viewer the uncomfortable sensation of vicariously experiencing the tragedy<\/strong>. The film also features Swedish actors<\/strong>, including Douglas Johansson (known for his role in the Wallander films<\/em>).<\/p>\n

Overall, the narrative remains relatively straightforward<\/strong>, which is not necessarily a weakness. However, there are moments where the script seems to rely on convenient resolutions or plot devices<\/strong>, bordering on deus ex machina (specific examples would constitute spoilers<\/em>). Consequently, while based on a dramatized true story, the film emphasizes the exhaustive nature of the suffering and graphic violence<\/strong>, potentially overshadowing the core narrative of the human family.<\/p>\n

The Impossible<\/em><\/strong> is an exceptionally well-crafted film<\/strong>, delivering a harrowing cinematic experience<\/strong> (in a positive sense<\/em>). For viewers who are sensitive to or anxious about tsunamis<\/strong>, this film is not recommended<\/strong>. However, for those with strong constitutions<\/strong> and a sense of curiosity<\/strong>, the film contains unforgettable scenes<\/strong>, although these are not always centered on the family’s journey<\/strong> and their efforts to reunite<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The Impossible<\/strong><\/em> premiered in Sweden on March 8, 2013<\/strong>.<\/p>\n