Is Around The Table Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2021)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Around The Table (2021), audiences are invited back into the world of Drama. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Haruko is a single mother. She has an unusual living arrangement. She lives with her son Riku, her friend Aiko and Aiko's boyfriend Sorao. One day, Yuko stays at Haruko's house to attend an art institute for the summer. Yuko is the daughter of Haruko's old friend Tomoyo. They haven't spoken for many years prior to Tomoyo reaching out to Haruko to ask if her daughter could stay with her for the summer. Haruko and Tomoyo have an uncomfortable past."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Naomi Nishida does well with the material given, though the script occasionally limits their range. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Drama. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Around The Table worth your time? If you appreciate Drama films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Around The Table is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 104 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.