Before Sunrise

I think I loved this movie so much because it captures a specific feeling—the one at the very beginning of a relationship when the tension is palpable and hope is so present. But beyond romantic instances, it captures the excitement and beauty of connecting with someone on more than a superficial level, finding someone willing to talk and listen. This reminded me of the people in my life who I could talk and talk and talk with for hours on end, and yet still feel like there is something more to say. Before Sunrise is built on conversation, opinion, two naive and young people exchanging ideas. The subjects ranging from love to life to death prompted lots of good discussion for me and Lily afterwards (and during our viewing…oops); in a way it felt like we were being invited into their conversation. There’s something so special about being young and unsure but having so much to say. I also loved how most of their dialogue takes place on public transit or on foot; instead of rushing from point A to point B, they’re sort of drifting without any real purpose or destination, which somehow makes it all that much more meaningful. Jesse was a bit cringe-worthy at times. He’s insecure, pessimistic, and basically an immature man-child. But in a way it makes everything more painfully realistic? I also think it’s important to recognize that what this movie shows is not love. Connection, sure, but not love. I really do think love builds over time; it’s not something that happens over one night of talking no matter how romantic that may seem. Maybe the next two movies will touch on that… we will see. Overall just timeless and effortless and beautiful AND SO REAL. Definitely my new favorite comfort movie