Only the world’s greatest living filmmaker could make a 3.5 hour meditation on coincidence, capitalism, friendship, aging, workplace politics and our inherent human dignity into one of the most compelling films of the year.
Why are we so exhausted and disconnected? Why do we feel so atomized and spread thin? All of a Sudden is a film that attempts to answer these questions and somehow succeeds.
Not since My Dinner with Andre has an onscreen conversation been so captivating. The performances of Virginie Efrie and Tao Okamoto as Marie and Mari are virtuoso feats of acting. Seamlessly interchanging between Japanese and French in moment after moment of emotional and intellectual dialogue.
This is a film rooted in the divine power of human friendship. It deeply understands the eternal truth that if we bind up each other’s souls and treat each other as we would like to be treated - then there will always be hope.
I left the cinema elated, drained and hopeful in a way I often feel during the high holidays. Hamaguchi has put a prayer for connection into the world. I hope people will see it and respond accordingly.
A masterpiece! Movies!!!
NYFF Screening 4. US Premiere at Alice Tully Hall. Intro and Q&A with Ryusuke Hamaguchi and Virginie Efira