Here and Now

Here and Now, also known as Blue Night, is an emotionally charged, uplifting American romantic drama film, released in 2018. Directed by Fabien Constant, it is a story that combines elements of love, tragedy, and the ever-relevant theme of existential self-reflection.

The movie is set in the bustling, often chaotic backdrop of New York City. The city forms a character within its own right, commanding a presence throughout the film. Its fast-moving, self-absorbed atmosphere forms a stark contrast against the protagonist's personal crisis and reflective journey.

Sarah Jessica Parker, the lead actress of the movie, delivers a memorable performance. Known widely for her role in the series Sex and the City, Parker effectively detaches herself from her iconic character, Carrie Bradshaw, introducing us to Vivienne Carala. Vivienne is a seasoned jazz vocalist at the pinnacle of her career, living a life revolving around music, fans, and her loyal following.

In the film, Vivienne's world is summarily turned on its head when she receives an unexpected, life-altering diagnosis. What ensues is a profound transformation and a 24-hour journey through New York City.

Simon Baker, known for his starring role in the television series The Mentalist, depicts an essential character in the movie as Vivienne’s lover. His acting adds a rich texture to the film and powerfully evokes the dynamic range of human emotions.

Gus Birney, an emerging young actress, portrays the role of Vivienne's neglected daughter, Lucie. She captures the complexities and fragilities of a teen trying to deal with her mother's lack of presence in her life.

The story of Here and Now moves forward in 24-hour sections, weaving in her present life with flashbacks of her past. Importantly, it explores the disconnect between one's public persona and private life, an ever-present theme in today's society with the prevalence of social media and the digital blur of personal and public lives. This unfolding narrative provides the movie its unique twist.

Fabien Constant, a first-time feature director hailing from France, directs the movie with an acute sensitivity that does justice to Laura Eason’s script. The film boasts rich cinematic lenses capturing the multifaceted Big Apple brilliantly, which couples with vivid colors and daring, unconventional shots.

The music in the film is carefully chosen, comprising mostly jazz music, given the professional background of the protagonist. The soulful melodies not only set the tone for various scenes but also reflect Vivienne's inner turmoil. It’s a melodious resonance of the protagonist's emotions, ambitions, and life situation - embedding the movie with a poetic undertone that is deeply moving and powerful.

Throughout the film, Vivienne's interactions with various characters offer a depth that can only be appreciated in context. Her dialogues and reflections engage viewers in the core questions of life, love, family, career, joy, and regret. The film's depiction of a woman in crisis illustrates the universal human condition of vulnerability and the strength that can surface in moments of adversity.

A striking feature of the movie is its real-time narrative structure. The story is set to develop over one day, unfolding Vivienne's journey of acceptance and self-transformation in real-time. This narrative flow endows the film with a sense of urgency and an intense, non-stop momentum that will keep audiences engaged till the last frame.

In conclusion, Here and Now is a film that deftly explores what it means to be human during moments of crisis. It encourages viewers to engage with their vulnerabilities and pay attention to the fleeting beauty of life. The film is a compelling narrative that sustains a balance between remorse and hope, melancholy and bliss, the past, and the future. It leaves the viewer musing over existential issues of life, mortality, and the imperative to live in the here and now, reflecting on their personal life journey. The portrayal of love, missed opportunities, and personal transformation makes it an emotional rollercoaster ride that stimulates reflection and introspection in each one of us. Overall, Here and Now is a movie that gets under the skin, forcing one to confront the bare truths of life and the relentless march of time. It invites the audience to dwell on our life's ephemeral nature while reverberating with the desperate necessity to truly live in the here and now.