Before Midnight

So interesting to see how my views of this film have changed. At an older age I can now appreciate the importance of this third and final instalment.  Watching how Celine’s fears and thoughts in the previous film now map onto a woman who has children and a long term relationship is a very poignant and relatable event for many women. The conflict between following your own individual goals yet the commitment, and arguably constraints, that having a family presents is explored excellently.  I really admire the placement of the nude scenes. Celine is left unclothed during an argument she has with Jesse, presenting a beautiful moment of vulnerability and realism. The moment pushes back against the shame surrounding female bodies, acting as a statement for female acceptance and beauty. Jesse symbolises many women’s fear of a slightly drifting husband who has wondering eyes and may have cheated on his partner. He’s honestly really dislikable and clearly holds an abundance of contempt for Celine. He constantly makes fun of her and her passion for feminism and struggles as a mother. Celine is admirably strong and I think this trilogy truly represents the importance of women following their own path.