Review of Before Midnight (2013) by Antonis Z — 02 Nov 2013

This is a true time, trilogy of films. In that sense, this is a rare type of real time film sequels and the credit needs to go to both the director and the leading couple protagonists. It's a great commitment for director R.Linklater, to keep the true spirit of the first film with the romantic encounters of the protagonists and also it's such a delight to see the very same main actors to deliver all through the trilogy. Hawke and Delpy simply "wear" their roles in such natural way, that it's almost impossible to feel that this is just a performance.

The setting of a picturesque area in South Greece, develops further the romanticism of the story told.

It's exciting to realize how these characters grew and developed their relationship especially when they had to go through such difficult phases.

So yes, that's a formula of a film invented back in 1994 with extensive dialogues set in beautiful romantic scenery but it all works since each film's theme covers a different phase of the couple's relationship. That's actually what makes this whole trilogy all so "functional", believable and interesting altogether.

I understand that this film might be the last of its line but I wouldn't mind at all if I hear that the same crew started working for yet another instalment in 10 years time from now.

And from what they've managed so far, I feel confident that they could guarantee the same quality and satisfaction in a future collaboration. So why not then?