The Broken Circle Breakdown (Felix van Groeningen, 2012)
(Rewatch)
I first watched this movie in 2017 and had no idea what to expect going in. I came away from it thoroughly impressed with its authenticity and emotional power, but I didn't fully love it. I did, however, have the feeling that if I gave it another watch - if I put myself through that experience again - my opinion would certainly improve.
After seeing it again tonight, that prediction could hardly have been truer. But this is not an easy watch by any means. As I type this, my face is red and raw from sobbing so much and so hard. Told in a non-linear way,
The Broken Circle Breakdown shows us the sweet beginning and horrible end of a relationship as two people fall in love and are then torn apart as they endure unimaginable psychological pain and struggle to process their immense grief and their misdirected feelings of rage, blame, and guilt. Veerle Baetens and Johan Heldenbergh give devastating performances as Elise and Didier, and they make you believe every amazing high and terrible low of their lives, all while making gorgeous music that fits the film's themes perfectly.
I knew when I started the process of preparing for this countdown that this movie would end up on my ballot somewhere, but I think this is going to land much higher than I had initially expected. That said, it may be another five years before I can bring myself to watch it again. I will, however, be purchasing the soundtrack as soon as I finish posting this review.