Close My Eyes

Close My Eyes is a bold and evocative British drama released in 1991. Directed and written by Stephen Poliakoff, the film delves into a complex web of relationships between family members who are all in a journey to discover themselves and each other.

The movie features Clive Owen, Alan Rickman, and Saskia Reeves in the lead roles, and their performances bring an extra dimension to the story. Owen's portrayal of Richard Gillespie is at times troubling and always compelling. Reeves plays his sister Natalie, and their interactions form the fulcrum of the narrative.

The plot of Close My Eyes revolves around the complex relationship between Richard, Natalie, and her wealthy, charming husband, Sinclair, portrayed by the esteemed Alan Rickman. The story begins when Richard loses his job as an information analyst and struggles to find new employment, leading to deep introspection and emotional turmoil. Around the same time, Richard's sister Natalie, who he hasn't seen in years, reaches out to him after her marriage starts to deteriorate.

Natalie's husband Sinclair, meanwhile, is a suave and wealthy businessman often absent due to his work responsibilities and the demands of his worldly lifestyle. Despite his affections towards Natalie, he fails in making her feel loved and adored. Alan Rickman brilliantly portrays this character, cleverly striking a balance between being alluring and elusive.

As Richard and Natalie's relationship gets rekindled, they grapple with their complicated circumstances, leading to highly charged emotional exchanges. These central characters are placed in a richly detailed contemporary suburban landscape of middle-class England. The film’s setting heightens the feelings of entrapments and suppressed desires, adding a layer of dimension into the character’s emotional turmoil.

Close My Eyes brilliantly captures the moral complexities of the characters' relationships. Poliakoff's screenplay takes these characters through a range of emotions, seamlessly blending moments of heartache, desire, confusion, and hope. All three leads deliver nuanced performances, revealing depth and layers in their characters. The film portrays realistic characters, grappling with real-life issues.

Stylistically, Close My Eyes is a visually striking and thought-provoking film. Poliakoff's choice of muted colors and minimalist settings beautifully complements the somber tone of the story, and the haunting background score creates an atmosphere of intense emotional tension. The film breaks the norms and conventionality of storytelling in cinema, and its unique narrative style leaves a lasting impact.

It's worth noting that this film is adult in nature, tackling taboos and moral dilemmas directly. Its mature storyline and character development are both bold and challenging. Close My Eyes manages to create a deep psychological exploration of its characters which reflects the authenticity of human complexities.

In conclusion, Close My Eyes is a significant title in British cinema, delving into the depths of familial relationships, desire, and the fears people face within themselves. Its profound screenplay, exceptional performances, and artistic direction make it an unforgettable watch. The film courageously explores topics that were and still are considered taboo and invites viewers to question their own understanding of love, relationships, and morality. It's a must-watch film for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking stories and beautifully crafted cinema.