Review of Two Lovers (2008) by Adiba A — 22 Aug 2009

Sandra loves Leonard who loves Michelle who loves Ron. Bottom line: non of them loves the right person. This is the core of the story which Two Lovers revolves around; yet the story's simplicity makes it remarkable and the way it's presented edifying. The film shows the story in layers, especially for those who are open minded and are able to perceive depth. Two Lovers raises questions about love, relationships, family, commitment, life, happiness and even destiny. What's more unique: it provides answers too. The very heart of the film lies in Leonard's (Joaquin Phoenix) relationship to Sandra(Vinessa Shaw) and Michelle (Gwyneth Paltraw). He is torn between these two women who represent two different worlds, and, in the end, would lead to two different lives and different kind of happiness respectively. Attempting to go even further and looking at his dilemma from a spiritual point of view: he is torn between living "only" his life and living his destiny.

James Gray does an excellent job with the material. Set in Conney Island, we are drawn to Brighton Beach immediately and it feels like as if you were there in each scene with them, walking the streets of Brooklyn and the City. Somehow it has a kind of 70's feeling into it, although it's set very much in today's America. In addition, James Gray treats his characters with a careful hand and shows human struggle tenderly.