Keep the Lights On

Keep the Lights On is an evocative 2012 drama film which provides an intimate exploration of love, identity, and the intricacies of long-term relationship. Directed by Ira Sachs, it features compelling performances by the talented Thure Lindhardt, Zachary Booth and Julianne Nicholson.

The film revolves around the endearing and talented character, Erik Rothman, played by Danish actor Thure Lindhardt. He is a documentary filmmaker living in New York City who encapsulates the vulnerability, passion, and, at times, self-destructiveness that can be associated with creative personalities. At a time when he is still finding his footing in his career, Erik encounters a charming yet reticent lawyer, Paul Lucy, portrayed by Zachary Booth.

The story picks up in 1997 when Erik, grappling with loneliness in his personal life, dials a sex hotline and ends up on the other end of a call with Paul. What begins as a purely physical rendezvous eventually evolves into a deep, passionate, and emotional relationship, gradually transcending their initial encounter. Erik develops into the more open and committed partner in their relationship, whilst Paul struggles with his identity and his secret addiction.

Keep the Lights On meticulously portrays their decade-long relationship, focusing primarily on the perspective of Erik, casting a light on the highs and lows they experience together. Under the direction of Ira Sachs, the narrative showcases their moments of elation, passion, suffering, and recovery with notable authenticity. The narrative is punctuated with Erik's struggle with his documentary film project, thereby mirroring the tumultuous pathway of their volatile relationship which is marred by bouts of addiction and denial.

Accompanied by an intricate and diverse network of friends and family, Julianne Nicholson, who plays Claire, is one of the notable supporting roles. She is Erik's confidante, an invaluable emotional support and sounding board for him. The relationship between Erik and Claire adds another layer of emotional complexity to the film. Their friendship provides audiences with a fuller understanding of Erik and mirrors the struggle of those who connect with people dealing with addiction.

Keep the Lights On offers viewers a raw and empathetic look into the complexities of maintaining a long-term relationship, where love, truth, and commitment are tested by personal demons. Every dialogue, silence, and scene is meticulously crafted to echo the realities of life and relationships far beyond what is typically seen on the silver screen. Backed by a thoughtful script, the performances are skilfully understated, allowing the narrative to unfold with a naturalistic ebb and flow.

Lindhardt's depiction of Erik is evocatively sensitive. He manages to portray a wide range of emotions, from vulnerability and desperation to strength and determination, which adds depth to the character. Booth's portrayal of Paul, meanwhile, is equally compelling as he masterfully grapples with the emotional weight of Paul's battles with addiction and complex relationship with Erik.

The cinematography in Keep the Lights On, much like its storytelling, is soft and unobtrusive. It aims to use natural light and authentic New York City locations to bring a richness to the film. The camera, with its non-intrusive style, lets the viewer in on the subtle, intimate moments of Erik and Paul's relationship. The film's title metaphorizes these complexities, asking both characters and viewers to bravely face, rather than hide from, the reality of their lives.

Soundtracks play a significant part in setting the tone of the movie. The movie is complemented by a score that is a mix of opera and folk, giving voice to the film's emotional undercurrents. This fusion of sound throws light on the character's contrasting personalities and their emotional embroilment.

In sum, Keep the Lights On is a deeply human and emotionally resonant film. It doesn't shy away from the stark realities of relationship struggles and depicts earnestly the perseverance required to love someone despite their flaws. The film resonates long after it's finished, leaving viewers to ponder the fragility and notorious complexity of human relationships. Felix Van Groeningen, in his review of the film, rightly says, "It is a film that wears its heart on its sleeve, even when it hurts."