The reviewer describes *Athena* as a film that intensely portrays grief, rage, and societal upheaval following the tragic death of a young boy. An individual’s tragic loss triggers a narrative that details how social injustice creates subsequent damage to a minority community. The film receives acclaim for its intense portrayal of human suffering and fury through its outstanding opening actions which thrust the audience into direct experiences of fear and righteous fury.
The three siblings deliver powerful emotions through their exposed acting which creates internal turmoil that matches the outer community turmoil. Visually, *Athena* is stunning, utilizing dynamic and immersive cinematography, including long takes, to pull the audience directly into the heart of the action and the palpable sense of desperation in the besieged community.
While acknowledging that the film’s relentless intensity and scale can be overwhelming and occasionally overshadow the narrative, the reviewer emphasizes the profound emotional impact of *Athena*. Social injustice and unchecked anger form the core focus of this film that leaves the reviewer feeling traumatized alongside others in society while pleading for justice. Ultimately, *Athena* is deemed a powerful, uncomfortable, and unforgettable cinematic experience that demands discussion.
