Waiting for the Barbarians

Evocatively photographed by Chris Menges in Morocco as well as Italy, Guerra’s stately, frequently horrific fifth feature recalls both Kafka’s In the Penal Colony and Graham Greene...

You can admire what the movie and Rylance alike are doing...

As a man who believes himself to be kindly and modest, even as he serves in a position of authority, Rylance crafts an instantly recognizable and sympathetic performance of naïve white guilt.

The Oscar-winning Rylance is perfectly-cast as the “one just man” Joll insults him for wanting to be. He’s quite good at conveying innate decency.

...finds its footing through several forceful performances, some gorgeous passages, and its relevant themes.