What binds human beings together

Rating: 10/10 (18 March 2010)

This is the first exposure to Kieslowski that I've experienced, and it definitely won't be the last. The subject is so close to the heart of all of us that anyone can relate to this, and it will have something to say to any audience member. This film isn't for everyone, and the painful topic of death and grief, not to mention the insistence on not providing any more light moments or relief than Julie gets, is not the only thing that may leave certain viewers unhappy with this. It is for people who love movies, and it is an intimate work of emotion. The editing is masterful, with subtle and effective use of sound. This has great cinematography, and it is never flashy. The acting is stunning for everyone involved; Binoche sheds every single speck of "armor", as far as feelings go, and allows herself to be extremely vulnerable(and again, there are those that will find it to be an excessive strain, though it is worth it). Every character is immensely well-written and entirely credible. The lead is thoroughly developed, as well. This has a marvelous plot. The dialog is realistic and genuine. There is a bit of disturbing content and brief sexuality(a little of which is unpleasant) in this. The DVD comes with 46 and a half minutes worth of informative interviews/featurettes and also trailers for the Colors Trilogy. I recommend this beautiful picture to anyone who thinks it possible for the medium to produce art. 10/10