This new release was a recommendation in the weekly email I get from Kanopy. The brief synopsis of the film intrigued me so I thought I'd give it a shot. What a pleasant surprise. The director Alexander Jeffery is quoted as saying it was inspired by Lost in Translation and Before Sunrise, two movies I particularly enjoyed. I can definitely see the influence in this charming little film. It features fine performances by two relatively novice actors, thoughtful and heartfelt dialogue, and a gorgeous setting. All the makings of an indie hit well worth an hour and a half of your time.
A Chance Encounter stars the talented Nebraskans, Paul Petersen, who co-wrote the screenplay with Jeffery, and Andrea von Kampen, who composed and performed the memorable soundtrack. The film opens with Hal (Petersen) checking into his hotel-which famously hosted Oscar Wilde, over a century ago. After dropping off his luggage, he explores the picturesque town of Taormina, Sicily, his leather-bound journal in tow. At a square overlooking the beautiful countryside he bumps into Josie (von Kampen) who is singing and playing her guitar.
Hal comments that he's impressed by her cover of the hit song she's performing, and to his surprise, he's informed that it's actually her original tune. After a brief introduction, he asks her to photograph him in the same location as a woman in a photo he draws from his notebook. Josie tells him she'll have the film developed and she'll give it him when they meet the next day. Thus marks the beginning of a relationship that's at the heart of this delightful film.
As it turns out, the two are struggling artists. After releasing a hit record, Josie is having a tough time crafting tunes for her follow-up LP. Meanwhile, Hal has been writing a steady stream of poems, yet lacks the self-esteem and commitment to devote himself to become a professional writer. It's fun to watch their relationship develop. Their friendship is strictly Platonic, however it's clear that they're soul mates. Their initial banter is a bit awkward, as they try to impress each other with literary quotes and pithy witticisms.
Josie then makes a proposal Hal simply can't refuse. She invites him to move in with her at the sumptuous villa where she's staying. They jokingly refer to the arrangement as a weeklong "writers retreat". It's at this point we discover she's in a relationship-her boyfriend is out of town and she's in a quandary. He wants to get married while she's not ready to make a commitment. Much like Hal's insecurity in making a commitment to being a professional writer. It's their common search for creating art that propels their friendship forward.
The film follows the couple as they become more comfortable with each other. Their days are filled with them working on their respective crafts, while taking time out to explore the beautiful town and its sumptuous surroundings. I especially like the scene where Josie takes Hal to the little village where Michael Corleone's wedding took place in The Godfather. Hal responds by doing an absolutely horrible impression of Marlon Brando.
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. It was written and performed by Ms. Von Kampen. If you enjoy it as much as I did, be sure to look for more of her songs on YouTube-there are a ton of her music videos on there!
