SUNDANCE 2023 | Movie Review: "Slow" Is A Tender Display of Romance
10/12 ForReel Score | 4/5 Stars
Marija Kavtaradze‘s second feature film, Slow, is a relationship drama about a dancer, Elena (Greta Grinevičiūtė), who falls for a sign language interpreter Dovydas (Kęstutis Cicėnas). There is an instantaneous connection between them that feels almost kismet. The film follows the evolution of their relationship and how they navigate it outside of traditional boundaries. The way in which the film explores asexuality is so direct and truthful, it feels like a breath of fresh air.
In my interview with Kavtaradze, which you can watch here, she talked about how the story started with the characters. As she was developing these characters she realized they were meant to not only be in the same story, but to act as lovers. This process seems to be alarmingly clear. Elena and Dovydas feel human, with distinct personas and deep passions. They fit together so well even though their chemistry is not what you expect in a traditional love story. It’s awkward and confusing, but isn’t that how many real relationships feel? It’s a wonderful representation of how two people slowly intertwine with one another. Dovydas ever so softly exposes himself, telling Elena about his asexuality. Her confusion makes Dovydas recoil into himself. Their relationship begins with a great deal of insecurity, which they must overcome in order for their relationship to truly blossom.
Image courtesy of Sundance Institute
Much of the film's runtime is set in this island of insecurity, with the couple repeatedly circling the same issues. In spite of Elena's desire for a traditional relationship, Dovydas simply cannot provide it for her. Despite his suggestion, she is uncomfortable with the idea of having an open relationship. Later in the film, following a drink with her ex-boyfriend, the couple engages in a heated conversation. To Elena, Dovydas's anger seems out of place but to Dovydas it feels like a betrayal. If she is not sleeping with other men, but rather receiving emotional intimacy, what's to say she leaves him for a man who can offer both? It's a very smart scene, however it feels like it occurs too late in the film. This explosion feels like it should have happened 20 minutes earlier, giving the story more time to breath before the swift ending.
Kavtaradze's masterful direction compensates for the film's repetitive nature. Visually, much of the film's focus makes sense for a film about asexuality. Due to Elena's profession as a dancer, she is often quite physical, which lends itself to her sensuality. Dovydas's job is also quite physical, but as a sign language interpreter there's still a barrier there. While lying in bed together, the camera examines their relationship. It holds close on their faces and beautifully frames the couple as they engage in acts of foreplay, kissing, exploring one another's bodies, and cuddling. The connection is there, but still something is missing. Grinevičiūtė, is a very talented dancer, providing Elena with the solace in what is missing in her relationship, as well as serving as a connection between her and Dovydas, who usually avoids physical contact.
Slow is an honest and respectful look into asexuality, providing the audience with the opportunity to reconsider their own definition of intimacy. The film also makes great points about how the traditional relationship structure is simply not suitable for every couple. This is the first time I have seen asexuality portrayed so honestly in film. The direction, performance, and cinematography are excellent. With her skilled direction, striking cinematography, and delicate emotional threads, Kavtaradze has crafted an outstanding film that provides audiences an excellent introduction to Lithuanian cinema. But don’t just take my word for it, following the film’s premiere at Sundance, Marija Kavtaradze won the award for her directing in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition category. Earning an honor like that speaks volumes for itself.
Acting and Casting - 2 | Visual Effects and Editing - 1 | Story and Message - 2| Entertainment Value - 1 | Music Score and Soundtrack - 2| Reviewer's Preference -2 | What does this mean?