80
While Communion holds tight to its own private mysteries, it scores a perfect 10 in drawing out viewer empathy, leaving us hoping anxiously that things will turn out all right for its protagonists.
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What are critics saying?
75
The Film Stage by Jared Mobarak
The film becomes a document of Ola’s lost innocence, hardening her to the reality that faith only gets us so far.
80
The Hollywood Reporter by John DeFore
Upsetting but too curious to wallow in misery (and blessed with a few grace notes), the film pays tribute to a girl who rarely indulges in the self-centeredness that comes with adolescence.
80
Los Angeles Times by Kenneth Turan
Communion is a heartbreaking example of a classic documentary genre — the immersive, observational film that takes a bold leap and embeds itself with a small group of people.
75
Zamecka’s all-access film means we see Ola’s desperation, and Magda’s resignation. Each one needs a break, and each is counting on the other to give it to her. Seeing Ola with a baby half-brother in her lap is just chilling.
88
RogerEbert.com by Sheila O'Malley
An astonishing directorial debut.