I thought it was extremely refreshing to see a movie where the love protagonists meet towards the end of the piece. It had beautiful shots, great music, strong performances and memorable moments. In addition, it's universal, and speaks to all kinds of love.
However, I do agree some parts required necessary trimming.
There are scenes where time is needed and welcomed, where the subtleties of the performance flourish and the power of the moment requires it. To mind come the dance between Gabe and Shannon, the adoration and contemplation during Gabe's and Ernie's first night together, the awkwardness of Shannon's date, Ernie's longing for love and a way out while staring in the kitchen.
But there are other scenes - especially some that were there exclusively for poetic beauty and others where the characters are not going through any particular emotional moment - that could have been trimmed to a third or fourth of their duration. Doing so would have provided a good balance and showcased the higher points better.
I could appreciate the movie greatly, but the rest of my party was unfortunately waiting for it to be over. There was no way I could convince them of the movie's merits due to their relentless - but fair - impatience.
However, I do agree some parts required necessary trimming.
There are scenes where time is needed and welcomed, where the subtleties of the performance flourish and the power of the moment requires it. To mind come the dance between Gabe and Shannon, the adoration and contemplation during Gabe's and Ernie's first night together, the awkwardness of Shannon's date, Ernie's longing for love and a way out while staring in the kitchen.
But there are other scenes - especially some that were there exclusively for poetic beauty and others where the characters are not going through any particular emotional moment - that could have been trimmed to a third or fourth of their duration. Doing so would have provided a good balance and showcased the higher points better.
I could appreciate the movie greatly, but the rest of my party was unfortunately waiting for it to be over. There was no way I could convince them of the movie's merits due to their relentless - but fair - impatience.