Poldi_Berlin

I watched the screening during the Berlinale. The audience was 70% women of all ages and the audience had many scenes where we were laughing and cheering. The way the story is told allows the audience to drift in, like the characters and be very attentive. At the same time, the different generations get challenged to reflect and admit the lack of liberty in thinking and feeling. It is an amazing movie about feeling without pathos. And the actresses are amazing by all groups and characters. Truly a golden bear and also a movie that exemplifies how coming of age is often a box that is diminished by critics. This a coming at life movie.

Despite the ambitious and arthouse like plot, the movie is not developing it in a convincing way. The often discussed power difference are clearly played and we see icy and emotional scenes. There are many why or why not questions that remain. However, this is not creating any longing for answers. All remaining a limited and missed opportunity for a deeper piece on the hypocritical and paradox world of neo-liberal philanthropy in the US. Indeed, it is a timely given the new US administration. Jessica Chastain described the movie as dark and strong. The applause was friendly and warm. We we're entertained but not speechless.

This movie is impactful, controversial and beautiful in many ways. The idea of getting a second chance to see off a loved one and to do this in therapeutic steps via a host simulation is challenging and creates some challenges for the logic of the plot. The director has tried to create characters and a flow, that allows to immerse in the complex plot. The different settings are sometimes dark and dystopian and sometimes cheerful and light. The main characters are amazingly played by all three actors, the pictures created are harmonious and the music supports the flow. No wonder that the reception at the Berlinale audience was very positive and the two hours were engaging and entertaining.