A story about the complex dance of human existence – that’s the new film by American director Ira Sachs. Passages, presented by Mubi, is about the marriage of Tomas (Franz Rogowski) and Martin (Ben Whishaw), which plunges into crisis when Tomas falls in love with young teacher Agathe (Adèle Exarchopoulos) and begins a passionate affair with her. And of course, there is much more at stake. Everything is complicated, everything is connected, everything is metaphor. Ira Sachs, known for his films full of emotional finesse, seems to carefully peel away the layers that envelop his characters. The uncovering of the unspoken is perfectly orchestrated, aided by the sensitive performance of the three exceptionally, equally strong leading actors, whose every gesture and movement carries the story. This is captured by Josée Deshaies’ camerawork, which keenly frames the love triangle in smoky images – and the film’s settings: pulsating Paris (achingly beautiful as always) as well as the vastness of the rural scenery. Direction and camera seem to follow the rhythm of life – all of which makes “Passages” a thought-provoking film. It doesn’t give answers, but lives from the ambiguity of life. In a world that races forward, it reminds us that some things just last as long as they last.
Text: Hilka Dirks / Credits: Mubi
Passages is out in theaters today (31.08.2023).
You can get tickets online and through your Mubi Go subscription in the app.
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