Critic Reviews

• Joe Baltake, Sacramento Bee

  Leading a double life in an American film only comes to no good, but not here. Matters play out realistically if not always fairly.

• Marta Barber, Miami Herald

  Though far from perfect -- the film is predictable -- Satin Rouge is a refreshing view of a foreign culture.

• Mitchell Vantrease, Arizona Republic

  It's a weepy, nail-biting story line that's all too familiar, although Abbass portrays her character with strong conviction and carries the film gracefully.

• Sid Adilman, Toronto Star

  There are many scenes of belly dancing, pure pleasure to watch.

• Liam Lacey, Globe and Mail

  Part of the charm of Satin Rouge is that it avoids the obvious with humour and lightness.

• Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune

  A fascinating examination of the joyous, turbulent self-discovery made by a proper, middle-aged woman.

• Kam Williams, Global Rhythm Magazine

  A daring drama that addresses how a wanton woman copes with a strict social structure that would deny her any outlet for her animalistic urges.

• Donald J. Levit, ReelTalk Movie Reviews

  A celebration of unintellectualized joy and the discovery of life.

• Urban Cinefile Critics, Urban Cinefile

  Bellydancing, with its ancient roots and links to fertility rituals, is a colourful and physical expression of life forces that Lilia has to rediscover.

• Phil Villarreal, Arizona Daily Star

  Though the path to self-assurance may seem a little dubious, you can't knock it too hard. After all, it worked for Lilia. And it worked for Amari.

• Mark Halverson, Sacramento News & Review

  An odd but alluring convergence of melodrama and fable.

• Kim Linekin, eye WEEKLY

  The biggest problem with Satin Rouge is Lilia herself. She's a cipher, played by an actress who smiles and frowns but doesn't reveal an inner life.

• Chris Hewitt (St. Paul), St. Paul Pioneer Press

  This Cinderella story is not new, but director Raja Amari makes the scenes in the club so vibrant and lush that we feel what it's like for Lilia to be there.

• Liz Braun, Jam! Movies

  Sexy and romantic.

Read all 14 critic reviews