Every Time We Say Goodbye

Every Time We Say Goodbye is a 1986 romantic drama film that stars the Academy Award-winning actor Tom Hanks, with Cristina Marsillach and Benedict Taylor. The movie is directed by Moshé Mizrahi, who is known for his sensitive handling of intricate human relationships. This wartime drama film is shaped around WWII, which provides a vivid setting for the story. Penned by Rachel Fabién and Leah Appet, the plot represents cultural divides, romance, conflict, and the chaos of war.

The film is set in Jerusalem during World War II. Tom Hanks, in one of his early yet significant roles, portrays the character of David Bradley, an American pilot serving in the Royal Air Force. After surviving a plane crash, he is grounded for a couple of months. During his recovery, David meets the intriguing, Spanish-Jewish Sarah Perrara (Cristina Marsillach). Despite the cultural differences, they are inevitably drawn to each other, and an intense romance blossoms between them.

The film delicately explores the difficulties they face due to their different religious and cultural backgrounds. As the plot unfolds, David finds himself enmeshed with Sarah's family. Here, emotions create an intense, interior drama against the backdrop of the all-encompassing war. David’s Protestant upbringing collides with Sarah’s strong Sephardic Jewish beliefs and their love is tested against societal and family expectations. The couple is persistently faced with adversities and prejudices that threaten to shatter their once innocent love.

Hanks, who would later become a staple as the quintessential 'everyman' in Hollywood, offers a stellar performance taking on a serious role in contrast to his earlier comedic ones. He is able to bring a certain depth and intensity to his portrayal of the American pilot, adding layers of complexity that make the audience sympathize with his plight. His on-screen chemistry with Cristina Marsillach, who delivers a heartfelt performance as the young, naive, yet defiant Sarah, is electric and compelling.

Benedict Taylor, showcasing talent beyond his years, gives a strong supporting performance as David's RAF buddy, Peter Ross. His portrayal adds another dimension to the movie's exploration of friendship, brotherhood, war, and its impact on personal relationships.

Moshé Mizrahi tells the story of Every Time We Say Goodbye in a way that it becomes much more than a bittersweet love story. He addresses the powerful theme of cultural differences and conservative societal norms, the looming war providing a dismal backdrop to the unfolding human drama. The challenges are not only external but also deeply internal dealing with religious beliefs, traditions, and familial obligations. The movie is a powerful testament to Mizrahi's ability to tell rich and intimate stories even in the midst of grand historical events.

The cinematography is powerful with an emphasis on detail. The viewer is transported back in time with the movie's rich set designs and captivating visuals. This attention to detail extends to the meticulously accurate period costumes that add authenticity to both the characters and the setting. The musical score is a haunting mix of period-appropriate tunes and a vibrant orchestral compositions. This audio-visual synchronization adds to the entire cinematic experience.

Every Time We Say Goodbye is a poignant historical drama that serves as an atmospheric backdrop to a romantic tale of love, commitment and sacrifice. It’s a heartfelt depiction of human emotion and the struggle to hold on to love in the face of societal pressures and the ravages of war. The film draws the viewers in with its compelling storyline and gets them emotionally invested in the fate of its characters.

Not as famous as some of Hanks' later performances, the film offers an opportunity to witness the early progress of this accomplished actor. Each performance within the film is exemplary and contributes to a satisfying viewing experience. For those who appreciate deeper insights into the human condition, set against a backdrop of significant historical events, Every Time We Say Goodbye should certainly be on the watch-list.