Film Review: The Dreamers

This is NOT a film for youngsters. There is a lot of sex and nudity. The good news is that it isn't vile. It's beautifully filmed and executed. It revels in idleness, nonchalance, and the tragedy of growing up.

The Dreamers takes place in France during the late '60s. We meet Michael, (Michael Pitt) pictured to the right in the above picture: a foreign exchange student from the USA attending the same school as Isabelle (Eva Green) and Theo (Louis Garrel) who are fraternal twins. He finds himself drawn to them as a moth to a flame and soon finds himself living with them. When their parents are away they wallow in art, cinema, and games. So much is happening in the world at this time both politically and socially but we only see small glimpses of the outside world for their world is within the confines of the apartment. Michael fancies Isabella and, normally, Theo is protective of his sister but not for the reason most brothers are protective of their sisters: Theo and Isabella believe they are one. They share an intimacy Michael attempts to comprehend; he later suspects their intimacy has crossed a line.

The Dreamers initiates an internal dialogue that will have you wondering what is true love and what is true friendship. The end (with the parents) is a huge shocker and one that will raise many eyebrows. Based on the novel by Gilbert Adair, the acclaimed director Bernardo Bertolucci brings a lovely thought provoking film.The film score is comprised of music from old movies which was interesting. It worked really well! I left contemplating the notion of what it means to grow up, why is growing up important, and how does one grow up. Definitely check this treasure out!