Of Lovers And Longings

Rating: 10/10 (17 December 2005)

An excellent film about love. Every character is spot on. Excellent acting, though both leads are award winning. Both should hopefully receive nominations. Despite the film taking place in 1963 - 1983, it is also sorrowfully current. It is an important film for its subtle power. Though not preachy, it will have an important place in film history. The first part of the film is beautiful in its rustic beauty. Terrific cinematography. Mountains, rushing rivers, herds of sheep - innocence?Here it is on the mountain's slopes that the love of these mens' lives starts. There will never be anyone else. It is simple here, uncomplicated - a part of nature and natural. The physical is more violent than erotic or perhaps that is the eroticism. The sex scenes are hardly ground breaking and should not upset many. Not graphic unlike some reports. When these lovers do descend from the mountain and away from nature, is when their troubles and frustrations start. Absolutely no one fares well in this film. By the end most of the lives portrayed have been shattered. It is all extremely sad and honestly depressing on so many levels, but it is superb and a must see. A pretty safe bet as a very serious contender for "Best Picture" in all of the awards still to come. Commendations to Ang Lee for his languorous, perfectly paced direction and for making this film at all. It too must have been a test of endurance, which will ultimately benefit all.