Brownian Movement

"Brownian Movement" or, more technically, "Brownian Motion," is the random motion of particles suspended in a medium, a concept named for Scottish botanist Robert Brown (1773-1858). It describes an observation relating to plant pollen that he first postulated in 1827.

In this story, the "particle" is Charlotte, a physician, and the "medium" is the hospital where she works. Charlotte circulates among the patients and selects them at random to engage in sexual encounters at a secret flat that she's rented. In contrast to her husband, an engineer who is handsome and masculine, her pick-ups are often physically repulsive and weak.

Others have criticized this film as dull or boring, but I found it engaging in the tradition of films by Yasujiro Ozu, Ingmar Bergman, Alain Resnais, and Agnes Varda. The visuals, especially of the illicit flat, are exquisitely composed and reminiscent of the artist Edward Hopper's interiors.

Except for one startling outburst, the film is a quiet psychological study to be savored slowly. The action is often limited to the actor's expressions and if you're looking for a fast-paced plot punctuated by lurid sex, then move on.