Joe and Belle

Joe and Belle is a romantic dark comedy that amalgamates elements of drama, thrill, and subversiveness. The movie, directed by Veronica Kedar, is not only unconventional but also provides a unique perspective on love and companionship.

The story revolves around two female protagonists, Joe (Veronica Kedar) and Belle (Sivan Levy). Joe is a charismatic yet introverted drug dealer who finds herself restless in the bustling city of Tel Aviv. The silence in her life is broken when she crosses paths with Belle, a strange, impulsive, and somewhat suicidal woman who seems lost in this grand world.

Belle is an intriguing character – far from home, with no one to lean on, she is driven by impulsiveness leading to disastrous consequences at times. Her infectious vivacity and curiosity act as an unexpected spark in Joe's tranquil existence, despite their stark differences in personalities. Interestingly, amidst these dramatic circumstances and enthralling storyline, an unconscious but robust bond develops between the two.

The narrative takes an unexpected turn when a tragic incident forces the duo to go on the run together. From the busy streets of Tel Aviv to the serene tranquility of Sderot, their journey together is filled with a series of unpredictable events that elicit laughter, compassion, and an understanding of their complex personalities. Their journey showcases how they navigate their way through society’s norms and laws, leading the audience through a roller coaster of emotions.

A unique feature of the film is Kedar's daring directorial style. She chose to depict her characters with immense depth and realism, making the audience feel every bit of their emotions. The characters are neither idealized nor romanticized. Instead, they're presented through everyday situations and their reactions to them, which adds a beautiful layer of relatability to them. Despite their unconventional lifestyle, there's an admirable resilience and charm in both Joe and Belle that resonates with the audience.

Romi Aboulafia's performance adds a quirky sprinkle of idiosyncrasies that further enriches the film’s storyline. The performances of the entire cast, including Kedar and Levy, are noteworthy. Their effortlessly organic chemistry not only enhances the narrative but also brings it to life with unique charm and believability.

The cinematography of the film also demands admiration. Each frame is vibrantly shot and captures the stark contrast between the two cities of Tel Aviv and Sderot quite brilliantly. The effective utilisation of lighting and colors adds an interesting depth to the scenes, making it visually pleasing.

The film also experiments with different genres. It flirts with the conventions of each, taking the audience on a fascinating journey through the dimensions of romantic-comedy and thrill, yet never loses its focus on the central theme – the unpredictable and captivating relationship between Joe and Belle. The film also beautifully explores themes of identity, acceptance, and unlikely friendships.

The screenplay is another highlight of the film. It is sharp, crisp, and evolves its characters with impressive finesse. The dialogue is loaded with wittiness, unexpected humor, and emotional punches that leave a lasting imprint on the viewers.

The music complements the overall tone of the movie. It is an interesting mix of melodies – from tense tracks that accompany the thrilling moments to slower tunes that perfectly match the pair's strange yet bewitching romance.

In conclusion, Joe and Belle provide an engaging blend of comedy, thrill, and romantic drama showcasing the eccentricities of life and love. It is a perfect choice for viewers who are not afraid to venture into unchartered territories; the movie prompts heaps of laughter and a deeper contemplation of intricate human bonds simultaneously. A standout feature for this film is its indelible characters, who will surely leave a lasting impression long after the final credits roll.