Older

"Older" is a movie that released in 2020, beautifully capturing the essence of life, love, and the passage of time. Directed by movie veteran Guy Pigden, who unfurls this narrative with precision, the film shines with thought-provoking themes and an immersive storyline. It stars Pigden himself, along with the talented Liesha Ward Knox and Astra McLaren, who bring life to their roles with their compelling performances.

The film unfolds in the wonderful city of Auckland, New Zealand, offering the viewers picturesque landscapes that flawlessly mesh with the film's plotline. The heart-rending topic of aging is dealt with finesse, with Pigden's direction beautifully crafting the narrative while dwelling on the depths of human emotions and relationships.

"Older" anchors primarily around Alex (Guy Pigden), a filmmaker struggling to make his mark in the world of cinema. He finds himself secretly smitten with his flatmate, Violet (Liesha Ward Knox), and the film’s backdrop is splendidly set for a romantic drama. However, the twists in store are nothing short of intriguing. Alongside romance, the tale weaves in boxing and filmmaking, making for a cinematic treat.

One of the highlights of the film is the resonant, authentic performances provided by the actors. Guy Pigden, in his remarkable portrayal of a tormented filmmaker, resonates powerfully with the audience. Delivering an emotive performance that ranges from personal and professional perplexities to a blossoming, hidden love, Pigden ensures that viewers are invested in his character from the beginning. His work here as both director and actor is nothing short of commendable.

In parallel, portraying the character of Violet, Liesha Ward Knox leaves an unforgettable impression. She beautifully captures the essence of her character while offering an honest and polished performance. She walks the viewers through the emotional turmoil of Violet, playing a character who grapples with unrequited love, leaving the audience entranced with her magnetic screen presence.

Astra McLaren, playing the character of Lily, also makes her presence felt in the film. Through her nuanced portrayal of a grounded, sensible woman, McLaren leaves an indelible mark on the audience. Her realistic performance presents an emotional depth in her character that contributes to the film's emotional richness.

Adding to the allure of the film are the captivating landscapes of Auckland. The city, with its beauty and urban charisma, provides a mesmerizing backdrop for the narrative to unfold, visually appealing to the viewers, while subtly contributing to the film's storyline and mood. With the cityscape intertwining at pivotal moments in the narrative, Auckland becomes more than just a location, and emerges as another character within the storytelling.

Beautifully capturing the essence of life and its many vicissitudes, the movie leverages its engaging narrative, competent direction, and powerful performances to convey its crux. Life, time, and growing older are depicted in a profound manner, encompassing emotions, relationships, and dreams that are universally relatable.

The soundtrack of the film deserves special attention, with soulful music encapsulating the mood of the film perfectly and elevating the overall cinematic experience for viewers. The apt selection of songs complements the storyline, enhancing the narrative and reflecting the lead characters' emotional journeys, subsequently heightening the impact of the scenes.

"Older" is drama and romance wrapped beautifully in a cinematic package. It's a story of life, realized dreams, unrealized ones, the trials and tribulations of love, and growing older. This movie rewards the viewer with a touching, authentic exploration of human relationships, age, and dreams, themed with subtle metaphors and raw emotions.

Packed with heartfelt performances, emotive narration, and beautiful New Zealand landscapes, “Older” stands out as a profound cinematic experience. It stays with you long after you've left the cinema, a lingering essence reminding you of the passage of time and the raw realities of life.