2wks, 1yr

2wks, 1yr is a definite must-see for anyone who has ever been in a tumultuous relationship. It's almost like watching a documentary -- the actors are refreshingly realistic and the story line is raw and full of life. Chris McKay intelligently weaves a tale of laughter, of tears and of the heartache that comes from loving someone too much. This movie is what "Something's Gotta Give" tried to be (and failed). Hats off to McKay for a brilliant and well-crafted film. I can't wait to see his next film.

And the actors, Krissy Shields and Michael Gilio, are incredible. They portray two very difficult characters with such ease, yet such emotion that the viewer instantly relates to them both despite the characters, at times, displaying unlikable qualities. They both did amazing jobs and I look forward to seeing them both in the years to come.

I was glued to the screen. Told in non-chronological order and with an eerie ambience, this love story is more like a mystery that slowly unravels Memento-style. The acting is raw and vulnerable, it's clear the director really gave the actors room to develop their characters instinctively. The writing so true to heart, reminding you, if you've forgotten, of the confusion and depth of intense love. The director pays careful attention to detail and shows a genuine interest in his characters. It is the rhythm of the movie I liked best, it's hypnotizing. When it was over I thought, this is the best movie I have seen in a long time, on a level far above most of what you see coming out of Hollywood.

One area where 2wks, 1yr really hit a high note was in its casting. The parts of Julie and Kevin were well cast ... the part of Julie particularly so.

The set dressing of Kevin's apartment really struck a cord with me. It really made me think bachelor pad and tied in well with the characters personality. It almost struck me as an apartment waiting to be filled up, much as Kevin was waiting for emotional fulfillment.

I really liked the character of Julie's mom. I'm not sure why, because she seemed like a pretty mean mom. But I felt Julie's loss when the mom died because I felt emotionally attached to the character. Julie's mom could have easily replaced Julie's friend in just about any scene the friend was in (which was two, I think).

Julie's name - what a great story. What a terrible story! But very creative and about the last thing I would have ever thought of. I felt that was, emotionally, one of the high points of the film.

"Do you remember us the way I do?" Great question!

The time lapse shot of bourbon street at the end was really very good and brought a strong closing to the film. I particularly liked the guy with the rake who was watching our couple walk down the road. I found myself wondering if this was an actual person who just happenned to be there or someone that the director had cast (or asked) to do specifcally that.

I loved this movie because I saw my younger self in more than 1 character. The protagonists are young, in love for the first time, don't have great coping mechanisms, and don't know what to do with the depth of their feelings. Their fears and young'ish discussion skills dampen their feelings at every step. Will their love stay lit despite it all? Isn't that what every person hopes in every new relationship? The dance of 2 steps forward/1 step back -- excitement and hope, fear and anxiety. That's where Julie and Kevin take the viewer. They are not the perfect couple -- and that's why I connected to them. Their honesty and complexity resonated deeply with me, and their dance -- while it is not "mine" per say -- well, their steps felt familiar. I watched them and it felt deeply emotional to me, seeing parts of my old self in them and simply watching them as a couple evolve.

On a lighter note, the writing is both funny and sad. Some lines are laugh out loud funny and light and that provides a good balance for the emotions. The ending is a surprise and, when it's all done, completely perfect.

I very much look forward to seeing what new director Chris McKay writes and directs next.

I really enjoyed the roller coaster ride that this film offered. It's a very character driven film and the characters feel so real, and you can really relate to them. My kudos to the actors and director of this film for their superb character development. A surprising plot twist and interesting use of flashbacks make this film quite interesting. A must see movie if you have ever been in love.