Opening 2 Apr 2015
Directed by:
Wim Wenders
Writing credits:
Bjørn Olaf Johannessen
Principal actors:
Rachel McAdams, James Franco, Peter Stormare, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Marie-Josée Croze
One distracted moment is all it takes to change everything. While driving on a backwoods road during a snow storm, apathetic writer Tomas (James Franco) accidentally hits and kills a young boy. Perhaps Tomas should have been paying closer attention to the road, or maybe the young boy’s older brother should have been more careful, or their mother (Charlotte Gainsbourg) should have called them home before it got so late in the evening. In truth, it was no one’s fault. Despite this, the ramifications of the young boy’s death echoes through the lives of those who remain behind for years to come.
Director Wim Wenders’ use of color, texture, and symbols brings an ethereal quality to the film which is only enhanced by the addition of 3D. Particularly surprising is the understated acting of Franco, who portrays a guilt-ridden writer who reaches his prime only after the tragedy of the accident. Unfortunately, the editing is at times choppy and distracting, which prevents the film from truly reaching its potential. However, overall Wenders has created a thoughtful portrait of bereavement that should not be missed. (Rose Finlay)
