Sonja Walt

I scored it highly because its achieved the rare effect of still playing on my mind an hour after it ended. The story isn't really about true, once-in-a-lifetime romance. Or about a friend marrying a socially suitable partner when she was 'in love' with another. Or a long time buddy who's personal conflict around his self worth and inadequacies has set him firmly on a self destructive path. Or for that matter the two adult daughters who are struggling with the choices before them. Both trying to communicate with each other but finding it hard to bridge the gap defined by each's lifestyle choices and values. This movie is a snapshot, a voyeurs short walk into the middle of an already established story. We aren't graced with detailed histories, and backstories. The focus is not really on how the characters have arrived at this point in time. We focus instead on watching these characters dealing with guilt and regret and coming to the slow realisation that life and love happens despite us. That we are where we are because of choices we've made. Some good. Some not so good. That's its never been about finding that perfect life or perfect love. Because this realm, this earthly plane, its just messy. The best we can hope for is to feel love, be stronger for the inevitable hurt and loss that comes with life and to have the courage to love. Generously and with kindness. And that ultimately, even though our decisions have the power to inflict joy and hurt on others, they are themselves fully responsible for how they choose to handle it.