Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Blue Is The Warmest Color (2013, dir. Abdellatif Kechiche)

There is something about "Blue Is the Warmest Color" that makes me think that I am watching the Truth.  It is a very Truthful film.

Yes, the sex scenes are somewhat drawn-out, excessive, and intense for most North Americans.  But aside from these scenes, which have been the main focus of most criticism and press-coverage surrounding Kechiche's feature, what we see is a film full of compelling conversations, realistic happenings, and truly life-like encounters.  There is something about the rhythm and tone of the screenplay (although I was reading subtitles) which heighten its realism and makes you think you are witnessing life instead of fiction.

It is the story of Adele (Adele Exarchopolous) who as a young high school student is struggling to locate her own identity and place in the world.  Then she meets Emma (Lea Seydoux) who is the missing piece in the puzzle of her life.  They become lovers and soul-mates for a fleeting moment in each other's lives and they grow and learn as a result.

I loved the scenes at Adele's school.  There are classroom scene (she is a literature major) that demonstrate an expertise in direction by Kechiche that is peerless and soulful.  The romance that blossoms between the two leads and takes place outside the bedroom is tender and meaningful as well.

As for the sex scenes in question, they are graphic and intense.  But perhaps if we look at them as a part of the culture in which it takes place and a reflection of what many people experience then perhaps more people can accept them.  It is a great film and I look forward to more from this director.

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