Paper Year

Paper Year is a 2018 Canadian romantic drama film that explores the complexities of young love, adulthood, and the stark realities of a seemingly idyllic marriage. Directed by young filmmaker Rebecca Addelman, the film is a poignant narrative of the romantic and personal growth faced by the characters, unapologetically examining the not-so-glamorous side to falling in love. The film incorporates three dynamic lead characters portrayed by talented actors Andie MacDowell, Avan Jogia, and Eve Hewson.

The film’s title refers to the first, and often tumultuous, year of marriage also known as the "paper year". It folds and unfolds around the primary characters, Franny (Eve Hewson) and Dan (Avan Jogia), two young lovers who decide to get married after dating for a short period. Their budding love story is contrasted with the experienced and somewhat ailing relationship of Joanne, effectively portrayed by Andie MacDowell, who is also grappling with her own marital and personal issues.

Eve Hewson beautifully ensnares audiences as Franny, a young woman filled with hope and innocence who is quickly exposed to the harsh realities of married life. Her evolving character contrasts deeply with her husband, Dan, played by Avan Jogia, who is realistically struggling to provide for their superficially perfect life. The film eloquently weaves together their struggles, their moments of joy, and their inevitable clashes, confronting audiences with the complexities of young love in the real world.

Perhaps the most layered character of the film is Joanne, portrayed by Andie MacDowell, an accomplished TV producer navigating through her own marital woes. She serves as both a mentor and cautionary tale for Franny, showing the young woman the possible results of a hastily decided marriage.

Paper Year achieves a fine balance of fresh-faced romance and heartrending drama, accomplishing an effective portrayal of emotional dynamics between the characters. The story is not merely about the characters' struggle to maintain their relationship; it’s equally about their individual journeys and personal growth, given the circumstances. The narrative arcs of the characters are nuanced and often surprising, shedding light on the movie’s deeper theme - the often-uncomfortable transition into adulthood and the weight of responsibilities that come alongside it.

The film deals with the engaged themes of love, fidelity, and the pursuit of one's dreams while trying to sustain a relationship - all with a melange of raw emotion, stark reality, and warm humor. The screenplay, crafted by Rebecca Addelman, is carefully detailed, capturing the essence of human emotions without being overly dramatic.

Though the heart of the movie lies in its examination of love and relationships, the film also showcases the struggle of chasing one's dreams. Dan's quest to become a famous actor leads to tension and frustration, while Franny lands a job as a TV producer's assistant and begins to navigate the complexities of both her personal and professional life.

The chemistry between Hewson and Jogia is palpable, portraying a convincing portrait of a young couple in love, dealing with their internal and external struggles. Andie MacDowell impeccably delivers a highly nuanced performance, masterfully conveying the emotions of a woman dealing with her evolving individual identity amidst a broken marriage.

Visually, the film is a treat to the audience, with its bright yet understated cinematography, aptly capturing the spirit of youth, love, and, the dream of 'making it big'. The director successfully manages to keep a steady, realistic, and relatable tone throughout the film; the essence of which lies in its raw, candid exploration of relationships, dreams, and the reality of adulthood.

Paper Year is a potent cocktail of emotion-fueled drama, heartening romance, and bitter-sweet realities making it a compelling watch. The film offers a fresh, authentic take on marital relationships, especially in the first year, challenging illusions of perfection while encouraging the appreciation of realness, however ugly and tough it may seem. Every unfolding scene, as delicate as paper, greatly contributes to the overarching narrative, mirroring the complexities of relationships that are not always rosy or heartbreaking. Overall, Paper Year is an impactful film featuring strong performances and a well-crafted plot that will provoke contemplation and conversation off-screen.