Two of Us
Love is tricky – it can drive people to do the most wonderful and difficult things. In Two of Us, the directorial debut from Filippo Meneghetti, two elderly women who have kept their love secret for decades must face reality after a sudden turn of events threatens to expose them.
From the very first scene, it is clear that this is a delicate, in-depth look at what draws two people together. It portrays a love that is deeper than words, delivered by excellent direction and writing. Meneghetti and his co-writer Malysone Bovorasmy have crafted a script that leaves ample room for silence. In those moments where the viewer is left with simply the image, they are forced to contemplate and to relate, drawing them further into the film.
The plot is excellent, and moves at a nice pace. As the relationship between Nina and Madeleine fractures under the weight of the secret they have been keeping, an emergency medical situation forces Nina to take stock of what she would miss were Madeleine to leave her life. She is driven to regain her partner and the audience truly feels that passion.
It is also immaculately produced, with cinematography and sound design that allow the narrative to move easily from moments of playful levity to throttling claustrophobia. As Nina’s desperation mounts, so too does the tension, resulting in scenes that play out more like a thriller than a romantic drama. It is wonderfully multifaceted, and really captures the emotions that love can inspire.
Most impressive however are the performances: Barbara Sukowa and Martine Chevallier are simply marvellous as Nina and Madeleine, delivering maturity and command of character that is rarely seen on screen. Their relatability and human touch draw the viewer into their relationship, lending it believability. This is complemented by the excellent supporting performances, particularly that of Lea Drucker as Madeleine’s daughter Anne.
A wonderful film from start to finish, Two of Us feels like a passionate tribute to love. As it unfolds one really understands the depth of Nina and Madeleine’s bond, how their relationship has been a guiding light for them both, and how they will go to any lengths to hold on to it.
Joe Milo
Two of Us is released in select cinemas on 12th July 2021.
Watch the trailer for Two of Us here:
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