Review of Before Sunrise (1995) by Peter F — 05 Mar 2013

It's a common known fact that the vast majority of romantic comedies suck, but Richard Linklater fortunately knows the ingredients to make a mesmerizing one: smart dialogue, appealing (and non-indulgent) philosophical musings, an original story structure, and full concentration on a great on-screen couple with alluring chemistry.

Set over the course of a 24-hour love affair that transcends the boundaries of time, Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy are absolutely believable in their roles as Jesse and Celine. Thank god for Linklater's minamalist approach also, as this movie would truly only work as an all-out character study.

One of the best romantic flicks of the last 20 years, and it's ingenuity is only enhanced by it's equally rewarding sequel.