Cast: Nina Meurisse, Laurence Roothooft
Director: Cato Kusters
Synopsis: After getting engaged, Fleur and Julian realise how many countries they aren’t allowed to get married in, so instead of focusing on the negative, they get married in every country they’re legally allowed to as a same-sex couple. When an unexpected injury happens, it causes an abrupt end to their 22 weddings and changes their lives forever.
My thoughts: To say this film wasn’t emotional would be a bold lie; the entire screening was in tears. From the story to the performance, every aspect of this film was beautifully crafted into such a moving piece. The actors bring such a raw and beautifully authentic feeling to this film; Fleur and Julian’s chemistry is undeniable from the first scene. Handheld camcorder shots made this film feel so much more impactful. There was one clip Fleur kept watching of Julian when they were in New York, and Julian was playing about saying “New York, New York”; that playful energy really showed the kind of love that they had for each other, making the performance come to life.
There are small moments of eye contact and dialogue which feel so pure and authentic, adding to the soul-crushing performance and storyline. Once it’s found out that Julian is seriously ill, their relationship changes as they’re both trying to be strong for each other, even though they know what’s coming. Even when they have one moment of normality where they can laugh with each other, there are still small changes in their body language where you can see the impact this illness has on them both.
The final presentation scene stands out as one of the most powerful scenes in the film. Fleur, in that moment, is so vulnerable, but she’s allowing herself to be in order to honour her wife. Overall, this film is a must-see and will be on my radar to watch again once I’m mentally prepared to do so again, due to the deeply human and authentic performances from both Meurisse and Roothooft, and the handheld scenes where it’s like we’re watching pre-recorded clips of them that make it feel less like a film and more like you’re there experiencing everything.
My rating: 5 out of 5
