One of the best movies of 2004

Rating: 10/10 (7 September 2005)

Along with Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, this has to be one of my favorites from 2004. The movie is very talky and sometimes wanders dangerously into pretension, but nevertheless reaches beauty and profundity frequently against a stunning Parisian backdrop. What could be better? Before Sunrise was a bit too wide eyed and romantic for me, but Before Sunset hits melancholy notes that ring true with every bittersweet insight. The screenplay, written by the director and the two leads, is a gem and is realized with conviction and sensitivity by Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, who have never been better in my opinion. Love is all too evident between Jesse and Celine, and we are privileged to share the experience.