Losing Alice

Losing Alice is a captivating psychological thriller series on HOT3 that aired in 2020. This Israeli show, which is also available for international streaming via Apple TV+, represents a fascinating but unsettling exploration of obsession, creativity, sexual attraction, and the female psyche.

The series revolves around Alice Ginor, an accomplished 48-year-old film director who finds herself struggling with creative stagnation, identity crisis, and an unfulfilled personal life. However, a chance encounter with an enigmatic 24-year-old screenwriter named Sophie Marciano on a train ride sets off a chain of events that reawakens Alice's passion for filmmaking and life in general.

As Alice gets deeply involved in the production of Sophie's script for a psychological horror film, she is irresistibly drawn into Sophie’s complex and often disconcerting world. The show meticulously builds a narrative where reality and fiction intertwine, making it increasingly hard for Alice, and the viewers, to distinguish between the two.

Losing Alice is not just a story about the struggle of a woman trying to regain her lost creativity and drive; it's a multi-layered narrative that examines themes of fear, guilt, morality, and the murky boundaries of ethical behavior. Consequently, it's a journey into the inner labyrinth of the human mind and the shadows it hides.

The series showcases a remarkable authenticity in its depiction of middle age, giving it an unsparing, often poignant honesty. This is particularly reflected in the nuanced portrayal of Alice, a character grappling with the regret of unfulfilled potential and the fear of waning relevance, both professionally and personally.

Furthermore, Losing Alice also delves into the intricacies of power dynamics and the dark allure of seduction. The relationship between Alice and Sophie evolves in an intricate dance of mentor and mentee, muse and artist, idolizer and idolized; this combination of roles results in an intense, and at times, destructive mix of admiration, rivalry, and emotional manipulation.

The series doesn't shy away from uncomfortable topics, pushing the boundary of what's commonly represented on the screen. Losing Alice digs into the power plays inherent in sexual relationships, ageism, and the pursuit of success in the film industry. It offers up a critical take on the traditional male perspective of sexuality, youth, and the role of women, turning them on their heads in a refreshing and challenging way.

Written and directed by Sigal Avin, Losing Alice uses a non-linear narrative structure, often relying on flashbacks to reveal critical pieces of the story. While this may sound confusing, it effectively creates suspense that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat, always guessing what happens next. The series excels in creating a tense atmosphere with clever use of suspense and cliffhangers, intensified by sharp camera angles and the striking use of light and shadow.

The casting in the series is worth lauding; Ayelet Zurer delivers an exceptional performance as Alice, bringing depth to her character with a wide range of emotions and sublime subtlety. The chemistry between Zurer and Lihi Kornowski, who plays Sophie, underscores the tension and unpredictability in their relationship. The rest of the cast enhances the story with committed performances, rounding off an excellent ensemble.

In conclusion, Losing Alice offers an ever-twisting plot, gripping performances, and a narrative that will keep you glued till the end. The eight-part series is an addictive watch no matter the viewer's demographic or personal preference, and is a valuable addition to Israeli's cultural exports, proving once again the depth, originality, and intrigue that the country's film industry is capable of.

In a time when binge-watching series has become the norm, Losing Alice's complex and thought-provoking storytelling sets it apart. It doesn't merely entertain; it encourages viewers to ponder and question, making it an intellectual journey through issues rarely discussed. A psychological thriller that goes beyond the macabre, Losing Alice cultivates anticipation, surprise, and generally will keep audiences engrossed, leaving them craving for more.