The Wasteland Reviewer

Anniversary (2025) Written Review

What is the most powerful, and potentially dangerous, thing in all the world? An idea. You could argue that it has no physical elements or direct effects because it is something that only exists in words or thoughts. But words and thoughts can inspire, incite, and influence. An idea can drive individuals to act, good or bad. The most dangerous ideas are those that can have power behind them. Ideas for politics, government, religion, society, and the environment can all pack an immense punch. A film like Anniversary tackles lofty topics and frames things in the view of one family, torn apart by an idea. “The Change”. 

How does writer Lori Rosene-Gambino navigate such lofty ideas and themes for Anniversary? This film works on two levels. You have the human drama that focuses on this family as well on the larger and grander commentary on rising fascism born out of “well intentioned” political movements. The film certainly has some relatable human elements with tensions growing from new members coming in and influencing members of the family (i.e. through marriage). You also see how people can be radicalized and can come into conflict with their family (especially between parents and their children). These are all things that feel so authentic in today’s political landscape. But the film does struggle at times when it gets bogged down too often in blunt political debates. The broader context of the film is too vast and broad to keep the audience grounded. There are also too many thoughts and ideas to latch onto, giving the film a shallower result than these timely themes deserve. The narrative certainly has plenty of twists and turns that arise through the uncomfortable conflicts throughout the film. By the time the film’s credits roll, we witness just how horribly wrong such provocative perspectives and ideas can go. The largest frustration of the film is that it never really confronts a substantive political perspective (which feels like it is both too aggressive but playing it safe. 

How does acclaimed Polish filmmaker Jan Komasa bring Anniversary to life? The whole film certainly has an atmosphere that is pregnant with tension and suspense. Anniversary is an uncomfortable film that has plenty of moments that are just overwhelming in the amount of tension that is packed into said scenarios. Komasa certainly knows how to ratchet up tension and make the most of the conflicts laid out in Rosene-Gambino’s script. But it is not just the unnerving tension that gives the film weight. The emotion that shines through when the family members begin to fight and lose each other. There are a few key emotional elements in the film (including the whole final sequence) that extract such visceral emotions. The film takes place over time and Komasa does deliver a quickly moving and intense cinematic experience that will push all your buttons.

What is the key to Anniversary’s success? The ensemble cast. Each member of this extended family does wonders in delivering tension, emotion, rage, and fear. Diane Lane is a powerful presence as the matriarch of the family. Her deep attachment to politics makes her a rageful and struggling presence as this new fascist regime grows in power. Seeing her robbed of her power and strength throughout the film feels so authentic thanks to Lane’s performance. Kyle Chandler is the patriarch with his direct perspective and intensity. We get a sit-down conversation between father and son at one point with Chandler delivering a powerful performance. Dylan O’Brien delivers something special here with his arrogant and assured presence making him come off as someone you just want to hit so badly. His antagonistic presence is so frustrating (in a purposeful way). Phoebe Dyenor portrays Liz, the young woman who changes the family and the country for good. Dyenor’s performance is full of mystery as the audience is meant to struggle seeing her true intentions throughout the film. The trio of Madeline Brewer, Mckenna Grace, and Zoey Deutch each get their time to shine at different points in the film. When the film focuses on the human connections and the conflicts amongst them, Anniversary is at its best. 

Is Anniversary a meaningful cinematic experience in these tense and complex times in American society? There was so much potential in Komasa’s film, but the end results are only manageable enough. The elements that are anchored in more human connections and conflicts are the strongest. This ensemble cast gives the film a rich and strong base to build on. Unfortunately, too many ideas and a lack of substantial depth give the film a shaky structure. There is no real focus on the themes and ideas which makes the film lack the impact that it needs to truly soar.