In Syria

Chamber drama doesn't begin to describe this gripping French feature.

"In Syria" is a finely made film - brisk, well-acted and filled with tension and mean twists. But it's also a wake-up call and a cry for help.

Any narrative improbability or twinges of melodrama are overcome both by the striking performances and the visceral, immersive filmmaking.

There are no simple answers, but with this set-up and its development, [Philippe] Van Leeuw gives us a lot to imagine and question.