Around the Sun

Around the Sun is a captivating drama film released in 2019. Directed by Oliver Krimpas and written by Jonathan Kiefer, the film stars Cara Theobold, best known for her role in the series "Downton Abbey," and Gethin Anthony, who stood out as Renly Baratheon in "Game of Thrones." Setting itself apart from the typical trajectory of romantic films, Around the Sun elegantly weaves threads of philosophy, mysticism, and romance into a richly textured narrative tapestry.

The film unfolds in a beautifully dilapidated French chateau nestling in the heart of the Normandy countryside. This breath-taking site appears as an almost mystical backdrop to the developing events of the film. Theobold takes on the role of Maggie, a charming and intelligent location scout who finds herself drawn to the chateau for a prospective film project. Anthony’s character, Bernard, is the keeper of the chateau’s intriguing past and appears as her guide and protagonist in the film. Their paths converge in unexpected ways, pulling the audience into the gradual unfolding of the plot.

Throughout the storyline, the film oscillates between moments of levity and profound seriousness. Bernard and Maggie engage in lengthy conversations that introduce the audience to a stimulating blend of philosophy and history. Around the Sun showcases an unusual way around dialogue-driven scenarios, with the intellectual discussions between Bernard and Maggie providing a fresh perspective into their characters and developing relationship. As they speak, their fascination with the chateau, with each other, and with topics ranging from science to scriptwriting begins to expose the subtext of their blossoming relationship, oscillating between flirtation, attraction, and intrigue.

The dialogue is highly intelligent, but Around the Sun never falls into the trap of becoming pretentious or dry, thanks to the captivating performances of its two leads. They represent their characters with depth, maintaining their interest in the world around them without missing the humanity in their exchanges. Consequently, Bernard and Maggie feel believable and substantial, predominantly real characters whose search for meaning and connection is both relatable and enticing.

Around the Sun also manages to strike a delicate balance between cinematic realism and dreamlike mysticism. This balance is best exemplified in the film's recurring exploration of the multiverse theory, which suggests the existence of an infinite number of realities. These philosophical and scientific musings shift the story from a simple romance film into a more complex narrative about the limitless potential of human connection and the myriad realities we might inhabit.

The directors use the fascinating terrain of the French chateau to reinforce this theme further, deploying a careful selection of locations and lighting to emphasize the beauty and mystery of the setting. The film also sports a unique style, with the compendium of gorgeous shots that celebrate both the beauty of the French countryside and the subtle chemistry between Theobold and Anthony. These visuals beautifully contribute to the plot's gradual unveiling, accentuating the moments of tension, introspection, and connection that fill the film.

In addition to its compelling narrative and captivating visuals, the film resonates on an emotional level, thanks to the poignant performances of its lead actors and the well-crafted dialogue of Kiefer. Theobold and Anthony effectively manage to evoke feelings of curiosity, longing, and admiration in the viewer, making the audience invested in their journey and keenly aware of the nuanced emotions they portray.

Moreover, Around the Sun deviates from the traditional narrative structure. While conversing about the nature of the universe and relationships, the movie skilfully jumps between different scenarios, each representing an alternative world. Through these sequences, the film detours from the linear, neat narratives often associated with the genre and instead explores a multi-layered plot - a delightful departure from the norm.

Overall, Around the Sun is an intelligent and mature film that bucks the conventions of the romance genre. This film invites audiences into a deeply contemplative journey through space, time, and human connection, allowing them to think and feel throughout the viewing experience. Theobold and Anthony’s superior performances and the philosophical considerations throughout the film signify Around the Sun as a thought-provoking watch, ensuring the audience leaves with a lingering sense of wonder and philosophical curiosity long after the credits roll.