Perspectives

Reception and criticism

We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011) directed by Lynne Ramsay received generally positive reviews from critics, particularly for its intense and thought-provoking themes, as well as the performances of the cast. Tilda Swinton, who portrayed the central character of Eva Khatchadourian, received widespread acclaim for her powerful and emotionally charged performance.

The film was commended for its courage in tackling challenging and uncomfortable themes, including maternal guilt, the nature of evil, and the breakdown of parent-child relationships. The cinematography, use of color, and overall visual style were often praised as contributing to the film's atmospheric and unsettling tone.

The film premiered at the Cannes Festival in 2011 where it was nominated for the festival’s prize, the Palme d’Or. It was also nominated for four BAFTA Awards, including for Swinton’s performance, and a Golden Globe, and won several others.

The novel

The film We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011) directed by Lynne Ramsay is based on the novel of the same name written by Lionel Shriver, which came out in 2003. The story is presented in the form of letters written by Eva Khatchadourian to h...