This German-Austrian film (but French-spoken) film is directed by Michael Haneke and stars Jean-Louis Trintignant and Emmanuelle Riva. Georges and Anne (Trintignant and Riva) are retired, Parisian music teachers who live a quiet but comfortable life. One day, during an ordinary breakfast, Anne suffers a stroke. Paralyzed on one side, life suddenly becomes a struggle for both of them; Anne, for losing much of her freedom, and Georges, for now having to be Anne's around-the-clock caretaker. As Anne's condition worsens, their lives become an increasing struggle, and not even the help of their daughter, Eva (Isabelle Huppert), neighbors, or various nurses can lessen the strain that is placed on the couple's bond of love. The film, ultimately, is a very sincere and unapologetic look at growing old and letting go. The entire film takes place in the couple's modest apartment (handled brilliantly by Haneke, which was no doubt a factor in his Oscar nomination). Although there isn't an excess of dialogue and very little "action," the film still manages to be engrossing and devastating. Some might find the overall pace to be a little slow, but I thought that it was a reflection of the theme, and worked well. Riva is definitely deserving of her Oscar nomination, and I cede that Haneke is worthy as well, for both director and screenplay. It's also a lock for Best Foreign Language Film.
Should You See It: Yes
Grade: B+
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