Viewers are captivated by 'Festen's' intense portrayal of a family's dark secrets unraveling at a patriarch's birthday celebration. The film's raw, handheld camera style adds to the immersive, unsettling experience, effectively conveying the emotional turmoil and societal hypocrisy. While some find the narrative gripping and the dramatic revelations impactful, others feel discomfort with the relentless tension and the characters' disturbing reactions.

👍 Immersive camera work enhances the raw emotion.

👎 Handheld filming style may be jarring for some.