L'amour et les forêts

Valérie Donzelli's *Just the Two of Us* (*L'amour et les forêts*) is a chilling exploration of the thin line between passion and possession. Adapted from Éric Reinhardt's novel, the film follows Blanche Renard (Virginie Efira), a woman who falls for the charming and enigmatic Greg Lamoureux (Melvil Poupaud). What begins as a dream romance quickly unravels into a harrowing story of manipulation and emotional abuse.

Virginie Efira delivers a heartbreaking performance as Blanche, capturing the vulnerability and strength of a woman trapped in a toxic relationship. Melvil Poupaud is hauntingly convincing as Greg, whose possessiveness and control escalate with a quiet menace that keeps the tension palpable throughout. Their dynamic drives the film, creating moments that are both devastating and utterly compelling.

Donzelli's direction is intimate and unflinching, using close, often claustrophobic framing to reflect Blanche's emotional confinement. The film's pacing is taut, gradually intensifying as Greg's behavior becomes increasingly dangerous. The screenplay, co-written by Audrey Diwan and Donzelli, is sharp and nuanced, offering an unvarnished look at the psychological toll of abuse while avoiding melodrama.

The cinematography contrasts the idyllic beginnings of Blanche and Greg's relationship with the dark, oppressive atmosphere of its descent, enhancing the emotional weight of the story. The score, subtle yet haunting, underscores the film's themes of love turned toxic.

*Just the Two of Us* is a powerful and unrelenting film that speaks to the complexities of abusive relationships. Best watched in a quiet setting, it's a story that demands attention and reflection, shining a light on the courage it takes to confront and escape such situations.

Rating: 8/10 - A tense, emotionally charged depiction of love and its dangerous shadows.