Before Midnight Movie Review

Before Midnight is a 2013 romantic drama film that was directed by Richard Linklater and written by Linklater, Julie Delpy, and Ethan Hawke. The film is a sequel to Before Sunrise (1995) and Before Sunset (2004) and continues the story of Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy), two Americans who met on a train in Europe and fell in love. Before Midnight takes place nine years after the events of Before Sunset and follows Jesse and Celine during their vacation in Greece, where they confront the challenges of their relationship, their past, and their future.

Story

The story of Before Midnight is simple yet profound, as it revolves around the conversations, arguments, and confessions of Jesse and Celine, who are now in their forties and have two twin daughters. The film's narrative structure is based on long takes and continuous shots that follow the characters in real time as they walk, drive, eat, and talk. This creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy that draws the audience into the world of the characters and makes them feel like they are part of their journey.

The central conflict of the story is the tension between Jesse and Celine, who have different expectations, desires, and fears about their relationship. Jesse is a successful writer who wants to spend more time with his son from his previous marriage, while Celine is a passionate environmentalist who feels neglected and unfulfilled. Their discussions range from personal anecdotes to political debates, from sexual fantasies to parental responsibilities, and from romantic gestures to bitter accusations.

Themes

The themes of Before Midnight are diverse and multilayered, as they reflect the complexities of love, communication, identity, and time. One of the main themes is the nature of relationships and how they evolve over time. Jesse and Celine's relationship is portrayed as both romantic and realistic, as it shows the ups and downs, the compromises and conflicts, and the joys and sorrows of being together.

Another theme is the role of memory and how it shapes our perception of the past and the present. Jesse and Celine recall their previous encounters and reflect on how they have changed or remained the same. They also discuss the cultural differences between America and Europe and how they affect their values and attitudes.

A third theme is the concept of self-fulfillment and how it relates to creativity, career, and family. Jesse and Celine struggle with the balance between their personal aspirations and their social responsibilities and question whether they can have it all or have to sacrifice something. The film also explores the generational gap between Jesse and Celine and the younger couples they meet, and how they deal with different life stages and perspectives.

Strengths

One of the strengths of "Before Midnight" is the excellent acting by Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. They deliver their lines with authenticity, and their performances feel natural and effortless. They have excellent chemistry on screen, which makes their conversations and arguments feel realistic.

Another strength of the movie is its excellent script, which is both witty and thought-provoking. The dialogue is engaging and keeps the audience engaged throughout the movie. The script deals with complex themes and ideas, such as love, relationships, and the human condition.

The cinematography is also outstanding, with breathtaking views of the Greek countryside and the beautiful seaside villa. The scenery is a stark contrast to the tense conversations between Jesse and Celine, which adds to the overall impact of the movie.

Weaknesses

While Before Midnight has many strengths, there are also a few weaknesses. For example, the pacing of the movie can be slow at times, which might not appeal to all viewers. The movie is primarily driven by dialogue, which might be a turnoff for some audience members who prefer more action-driven movies. Additionally, the movie can be emotionally intense and might not be suitable for all viewers, especially those who prefer lighthearted romantic comedies.

Overall

In conclusion, "Before Midnight" is an exceptional film that is a must-watch for those who enjoy thought-provoking and captivating romantic dramas. The film boasts numerous strengths, including its excellent performances, intelligent screenplay, breathtaking cinematography, and masterful direction by Richard Linklater. By exploring complex themes such as love, relationships, and the passage of time, "Before Midnight" delivers a profound and moving cinematic experience that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.