Watch Ellis

Ellis is a short film, directed by JR and co-written by Eric Roth, that chronicles the journey of an immigrant arriving to the United States in the early 20th century. It stars Hollywood veteran Robert De Niro, who gives a captivating and emotional performance as the narrator of the story. Despite being only fifteen minutes long, the film manages to pack a powerful punch.

The film is set on Ellis Island, which serves as the gateway to America for millions of immigrants. De Niro's character is a man who has arrived on the island after a perilous journey across the ocean. As he waits to gain entry into the United States, memories of his past and the people he has left behind flood his mind.

Through De Niro's narration, we learn that he was born in a small village in Europe and had lived there all his life. However, due to a number of difficult circumstances, he was forced to leave everything behind in search of a better life. He describes the claustrophobic conditions he experienced during the journey and the many dangers they faced at sea. He tells us of the extreme conditions they endured, including sickness, malnutrition, and a lack of water.

The film's use of black and white cinematography is striking and gives the film a nostalgic feel. The island itself is portrayed as a desolate and eerie place, populated only by immigrants, many of whom are sick and in poor condition. The film's imagery is both beautiful and haunting, and the sense of isolation and desperation is palpable.

The film's narration is accompanied by a beautiful score from artist Woodkid. The soundtrack is a perfect compliment to the film's visuals, creating an atmosphere that is both melancholic and inspiring. The music helps to set the tone and emphasises the isolation and loneliness of the immigrants.

Although the film is only fifteen minutes long, it manages to pack a powerful emotional punch. The journey of the immigrant and his struggle to survive is a tribute to the spirit of those who have come to America in search of a better life. The performance of Robert De Niro is fantastic, and his narration is both touching and powerful.

The film's director, JR, is a European street artist who is known for his large-scale, black and white photographs. He brought this same aesthetic to Ellis and used it to create a portrait of the immigrant experience. The film's artistry elevates the story and offers a unique perspective on one of the most important periods in American history.

In conclusion, Ellis is a powerful and emotional film that tells an important and resonant story. Robert De Niro's performance is fantastic, and the film's aesthetic is both striking and poignant. For those interested in the immigrant experience, Ellis is a must-see film that is both beautiful and informative.

Ellis is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 14 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.