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In the whirlwind world of romantic comedies, Belgian directors Raphaël Balboni and Ann Sirot offer an exuberant and unexpectedly profound portrayal of love and infertility in their latest film, ‘The (Ex)perience of Love’. Premiering at the Semaine de la Critique sidebar at the Cannes Film Festival, the film is a light-hearted, yet thought-provoking cinematic achievement that delves into the complexities of modern relationships and the influence of past loves.
Original Title: Le syndrome des amours passées
Directed by: Ann Sirot, Raphaël Balboni
Year: 2023
Country: Belgium, France
Length: 89 minutes
Leading the narrative are Rémy (Lazare Gousseau) and Sandra (Lucie Debay), a seemingly content couple grappling with infertility. A fantastical diagnosis of ‘past loves syndrome’ dictates a peculiar treatment: the couple must rekindle physical relationships with all their past lovers in the quest to conceive. This intriguing plot device propels the film into a series of humorous and awkward encounters that serve to enrich the narrative.
Despite its fantastical premise, ‘The (Ex)perience of Love’ doesn’t shy away from addressing real-world issues. It navigates the fragile terrains of infertility, jealousy, and the dynamics of open relationships with a deft hand, striking a balance between levity and profound introspection. Sandra’s struggle with infertility becomes a poignant subplot, particularly when a relative decides to terminate her pregnancy, highlighting the emotional complexities and the silent pain often associated with this topic.
The film’s treatment of the protagonists’ past relationships and their bearing on the present resonates deeply. It underscores the impact of past experiences and the transformative power they wield in shaping one’s current relationship. Balboni and Sirot brilliantly use humor to convey these nuanced insights, creating a film that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening.
The sexual encounters between Rémy, Sandra, and their former partners offer ample comic relief. They range from the hilariously awkward moment when Sandra discovers her ex-boyfriend is now gay to the shocking revelation of Rémy’s past relationship with his step-sister. These moments, though outrageous, add a layer of authenticity and relatability to the film.
‘The (Ex)perience of Love’ shines in its cinematic elements too. The intimate scenes are tastefully shot with excellent lighting, striking a balance between fun and sensuality. They are more playful than erotic, yet they emanate a raw sensuality that adds depth to the film’s visual narrative.
The performances are stellar across the board. Debay delivers a great performance, capturing the nuances of her character with both sensitivity and humor. Gousseau, too, impresses with his charmingly awkward portrayal of Rémy, making the character’s journey relatable and engaging.
In conclusion, ‘The (Ex)perience of Love’ is an enchanting blend of romance, humor, and life’s complex realities. Its light-hearted tone, coupled with its profound exploration of serious themes, makes it an engaging watch. The directors´ unique take on love and relationships offers a refreshing perspective that’s sure to resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
´The (Ex)perience of Love´ premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival as part of the International Critics’ Week section.
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