Get the latest gossip

‘I Only Rest in the Storm’ Review: A Sprawling Narrative That Demands Patience and Attention

Portuguese filmmaker Pedro Pinho requires a high level of intellectual engagement from audiences in 216-minute Cannes film 'I Only Rest in the Storm.'

This scene encapsulates many of the topics on the mind of Portuguese director Pedro Pinho — namely, the effects of colonization on contemporary Africa and how attempts at modernization might be a hindrance rather than a way forward. There are several stories in “I Only Rest in the Storm,” ranging from funny to overly dramatic, straightforward to full of metaphors, as the film follows Sergio through Guinea Bissau. One hopes it travels beyond film festivals and into local cinemas around the world, especially in the Global South, where “I Only Rest in the Storm” would most likely bring about the most passionate conversations, from people reminiscent of its characters.

Get the Android app