Sublet

Sublet, a 2020 film directed by Eytan Fox, captivates audiences with its unique blend of diverse characters, beautiful landscapes, and a compelling narrative, exploring the lives of its protagonists, Michael (John Benjamin Hickey) and Tomer (Niv Nissim). Set against the vibrant and colorful backdrop of Tel Aviv, Israel, the film showcases the incongruities and commonalities between different generations and cultures, all through the lens of a serendipitous encounter between the two lead characters that results in an unexpected but transformative experience.

John Benjamin Hickey plays the character of Michael, a middle-aged, New York Times travel writer who specializes in capturing the soul of the cities he explores divulging the secrets which usually remain hidden from tourists. Michael, despite being a seasoned traveler, is going through personal loss and life transitions that has made him detached and introspective. He arrives in Tel Aviv, Israel, intending to write an article about the city. His character progression is portrayed masterfully, allowing us to share his journey as he grapples with his reservations and prejudices, ultimately learning more about himself than the city he is meant to be exploring.

Niv Nissim portrays Tomer, the young tenant of the sublet that Michael is staying in. Tomer is a student and a burgeoning film maker, living life to the fullest, unapologetically young and vibrant. He embodies the city's dynamic spirit – its freedom, energy, and the pulsating nightlife. He’s the embodiment of the young, queer generation of Tel Aviv, bursting with life and dreams and enthusiastic about showing Michael that there’s more to his city than just tourist sites.

When Michael's reserved and somewhat somber demeanor meets with Tomer's high-spirited exuberance, what follows is the core of the film, a heartwarming and enlightening exploration of generational and cultural differences. The characters' dynamics offer a refreshing perspective, showing that despite their initial dissimilarities, there are common threads that connect their experiences. Through Michael and Tomer's interactions, the audience can appreciate the complexities of the human experience that transcends cultures and generations.

The cinematography of the film is also worth noting. The visuals play a crucial role in setting the mood for the narrative. As Michael explores Tel Aviv, so too does the audience. Through Michael’s eyes, we see the city's beaches, historic landmarks, bustling marketplaces, and vibrant nightlife. These locales serve as the perfect backdrop to Michael and Tomer's blossoming friendship and emotional journey, functioning as a silent observer, providing a sense of realism to the film's narrative structure.

Sublet also explores themes of love, loss, acceptance and the passage of time, addressing them with sensitivity and authenticity. It taps into the complexities of human relationships, portraying them with empathy and honesty. The film delves into the themes of love and loss – both romantic and platonic, highlighting how each character handles their past experiences, haunted memories, and future aspirations, leading to moments of revelation, acceptance, and personal growth. The intricacy of the film is in its ability to balance light-hearted humor with poignant emotion, carefully dissecting the subtleties of human emotions through the interactions of its main characters.

Sublet proves to be more than just a travel film or a typical "coming-of-age" story. It's an introspective journey into the complexities of human emotions, questioning the boundaries of friendship, love, loss and growing older. Rounding it all off is an exceptional cast, with Hickey and Nissim delivering powerful performances that are both relatable and thought-provoking. With its unique storytelling, affecting performances, and the cinematic beauty of Tel Aviv, Sublet is a captivating watch that leaves viewers reflecting long after the credits roll.

All in all, Sublet is a beautifully crafted film, coupling strong performances with a deeply thought-provoking narrative to provide a cinematic experience that is both unique and impactful. Sometimes comedic, sometimes sorrowful, but always real and multifaceted, the film proves that no matter what age you are or where you come from, life is a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Sublet is not just a measured tableau of human emotions; it is a celebration of the human spirit in its many forms.