Review of Before Sunset (2004) by Jared H — 26 Dec 2011

Just saw this movie for a second time, and I have to say, it has now become one of my favorites. It just may be the most authentically romantic movie I've seen, and might be my favorite sequel ever. Not trying to blow this film up to anything more than what it is. It's simple, and beautiful in its simplicity. It's just wonderful, and for whatever reason, has made a big effect on me. So, I'm bumping this up to 5 stars.

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Set, and made, 9 years after the first, these two pick up where they left off, and really make for an even better, more interesting, and even more authentic coversation than Before Sunrise. The characters are more mature, and have more at stake with their conversations. On paper, each seems to have moved on with their lives, but we eventually find out that niether one has fully moved on. I was really touched by the unfolding of their feelings toward one another.

The acting is amazing. It all seems so real and believable. In its own unique way, this might be one of the most romantic movies I've ever seen, and there isn't a single kissing scene, or sex scene, or anything. Just the way they talk to and about each other feels so much more real than all of the things we're used to seeing in a typical movie romance.

There's nothing in here that's corny, contrived, or "Hollywood." This is how it really is, and Hawke, Delpy, and director Richard LInklater should be really proud of themselves for capturing it so perfectly.