Personally want to watch her 2022 BFI list topping masterpiece BUT I decided to start with her shorter debut film.
Je, Tu, Il, Elle tells a story of a woman under the verge of a nervous breakdown. She just had been broken up with. Unable to literally move, she begins a slow journey to healing. In between, she eats a pack of sugar, begin a handy relationship with a driver she'd hitchhiked with and ultimately returns to her former lover's embrace.
A very interesting film. I always hear about Akerman when I reading about top women directors. But She has always been elusive since reports about her works describe it as minimalistic, repetitive and still. Things I tend to have reservation, but this is a RESPECTED DIRECTOR in bold letters.
This film proves that acclaim.
Everything is such a choice but it works. Directing and acting in what seems to be a very introspective and highly personal work, with all the bared. Quirky yet smartly written narrative that is complimented by her marvellous camerawork,and lighting. Everything here just is in full gears. She was able to encapsulate the trapped feeling of being depressed in such a tight package without any preachiness. And for a slow cinema style, she knows when to shift gear and engage her audience.
I am very excited to watch her other works.
Overall, highly recommended.
