Two Strangers Trying Not to Kill Each Other

The first film to be captured on the mirrorless Leica SL2-S, Jacob Perlmutter and Manon Ouimet’s picturesque and whimsically-titled collaboration candidly captures the evolving relationship between American photography pioneer Joel Meyerowitz and British writer Maggie Barrett. Set against the intimate backdrops of their homes in Tuscany and Brooklyn, the documentary chronicles a particularly transformative year in their lives, offering a touching portrayal of love, creativity and partnership amidst the passage of time.

At its core, the movie is about two distinct yet intertwined lives. Meyerowitz, a titan of contemporary art, continues to receive acclaim for his groundbreaking contributions to street and colour photography well into his 80s. In contrast, Barrett, a moderately successful writer nine years his junior, grapples with feelings of inadequacy and openly yearns for a recognition that seems perpetually just out of reach. Their contrasting perspectives foster incredibly insightful conversations, driven by Barrett’s natural eloquence and supported by the quiet sincerity that Meyerowitz has consistently exhibited in his boundary-breaking street photography for over 60 years.

In the opening sequence, each narrates a chronological account of the pivotal years in their lives, accompanied by poignant photographs from each era. Before their meeting, romance and eventual marriage, Maggie reflects primarily on her previous relationships, divorces and children, while Joel shares insights into his exhibitions, fellowships and accolades. While the two timelines eventually converge into their shared relationship, the juxtaposition of their highlights foreshadows the challenges that lie ahead that await them. The character-driven documentary takes a dramatic turn when Maggie fractures her femur, which acts as a catalyst for deeper introspection, forcing both characters to confront their fears about mortality and the fragility of their life in Tuscany.

Perlmutter and Ouimet’s backgrounds in photography are not lost, as the cinematography deserves special mention, capturing the intimate details of their home and the emotional landscape of their lives. Particularly in the scenes set in the Italian countryside, every factor of light and shadow adds depth to the interactions, enhancing the feature’s exploration of mortality and connection. Moments of silence speak volumes, allowing viewers to witness the unspoken struggles between the characters. The editing is both purposeful and deliberate, incorporating moments of naturalism – such as the occasional bug that flutters onto the screen. Yet, during Maggie’s impassioned monologue, the camera draws in with a medium close-up, focusing intently on her and capturing the profound weight of the moment.

While the pair’s discussions occasionally venture into familiar territory, such as dealing with their estate and deciding where they would like their ashes scattered, Two Strangers Trying Not to Kill Each Other nonetheless delivers fresh and tenderly romantic insights into the complexities of relationships and the inevitability of mortality.

Christina Yang

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Watch the trailer for Two Strangers Trying Not to Kill Each Other here: