EXPO WORLD PRESS PHOTO • MONTREAL • 2024

QUEBEC PHOTOGRAPHER CHARLES-FRÉDÉRICK OUELLET WINNER OF THE PRESTIGIOUS WORLD PRESS PHOTO COMPETITION photo © LENA GHIO 2024

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This year's exhibition powerfully underscores how individual moments can reflect broader world events. Through the lens of solitary figures caught in overwhelming circumstances, each photograph narrates a larger, universal story.

In a momentous celebration for Quebec’s artistic community, Charles-Frédérick Ouellet has etched his name into the annals of international photography with a compelling achievement. For the first time in 25 years, a Quebecer has been honored at the prestigious World Press Photo competition, and Ouellet stands tall as the sole laureate from North and Central America in the Single Image category.

Ouellet’s winning photograph, captured amidst the harrowing forest fires that ravaged Quebec in the summer of 2023, speaks volumes in its stark black-and-white simplicity. The image features auxiliary combatant Théo Dagnaud, vigilantly scanning the horizon at the end of a grueling patrol, ensuring no smoke remains visible. This single frame, supported by the Conseil des Arts et Lettres du Québec and The Globe and Mail, resonates with a profound silence, offering a moment of reflection on humanity's place within the ecosystem.

In describing his work, Ouellet notes, “This image is a silent moment, far away from the world of humans. It stands more as a moment where you realize that you are part of the ecosystem, not above it.” His photo not only captures the essence of a solitary battle against nature’s fury but also embodies a contemplative pause on our interconnected existence.

Ouellet’s accomplishment is particularly historic as he becomes only the second Quebec photographer to win this esteemed award, following Roger Lemoyne’s recognition in 1999. His photograph will be prominently displayed at the World Press Photo Montreal exhibition at Bonsecours Market from August 28 to October 14, and will journey to cities worldwide throughout 2024.

Yann Fortier, General Manager of the Montreal exhibition, lauds Ouellet’s achievement, emphasizing its exceptional nature. “His sublime and sensitive photo will stimulate reflection and introspection, in addition to informing and touching more than four million visitors worldwide,” Fortier asserts. This award not only celebrates Ouellet’s artistic prowess but also highlights the profound narratives captured through the lens of Quebec’s own.

PHOTO OF THE YEAR

In the heart of the Gaza Strip, amidst the chaos and sorrow of the ongoing conflict, one image captures the raw essence of human grief and loss. Palestinian photojournalist Mohammed Salem's haunting photograph depicts Inas Abu Maamar, a 36-year-old aunt, cradling the lifeless body of her 5-year-old niece, Saly. The child, along with her mother and sister, was killed when an Israeli missile struck their home in Khan Younis.

Salem, who had just welcomed his own child into the world, describes this poignant moment as a “powerful and sad representation of the broader turmoil” engulfing Gaza. The photograph was taken at the Nasser Hospital morgue, where Inas had rushed after learning of the missile strike. She was found squatting on the ground, holding Saly close, amidst a sea of grief-stricken residents searching for their own missing loved ones.

The tragedy of this moment is set against the backdrop of the recent escalation of the Israel/Palestine conflict. On October 7, 2023, violence erupted as Hamas-led fighters attacked southern Israel, leading to a fierce Israeli retaliation. Despite calls for evacuation to safer areas, many Gazans, including those from Khan Younis, found themselves caught in the crossfire as Israeli airstrikes continued to target densely populated areas.

By March 2024, the conflict has claimed over 30,000 lives, with Palestinian women and children bearing the brunt of the devastation. The international community watches closely, with the International Court of Justice examining allegations of genocide against the Palestinian population.

Salem’s image is more than just a photograph; it is a stark reminder of the personal tragedies that ripple through the larger narrative of war. Inas’s embrace of her niece is a silent cry against the relentless cycle of violence, encapsulating a moment of profound human loss that speaks to the universal struggle for peace and dignity amidst the wreckage of conflict.

This powerful image of Inas Abu Maamar and her niece Saly stands as a testament to the individual tragedies that weave into the broader tapestry of global conflict. It reminds us of the profound human cost behind every headline and the stories that are often lost in the statistics of war.

To witness more of these deeply moving human stories, we invite you to visit the World Press Photo exhibition. Here, you will encounter a wide array of poignant images from around the globe, each capturing the raw and transformative experiences of people caught in moments of profound significance. The exhibition provides an opportunity to reflect on our shared humanity and to gain insight into the personal narratives that define our world.

Come and experience these compelling stories firsthand, and let them inspire a deeper understanding of the complex and often heart-wrenching realities faced by individuals across the globe. The exhibition is open to the public from August 28 to October 14 at Bonsecours Market in Montreal, with the images traveling to cities worldwide throughout 2024. Don’t miss the chance to engage with these remarkable visual stories and honor the resilience and spirit of those depicted.

MORE INFORMATION HERE

LENA GHIO   

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MR-63 à L'Arsenal ce 22 août dernier

Frédéric et Étienne Morin-Bordeleau, fondateurs du projet MR-63, nous présente leur projet mis en branle depuis longtemps.

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Le jeudi 22 août, le complexe MR-63 a ouvert ses portes à L'Arsenal dans une explosion de couleurs, de saveurs et d’émerveillement, révélant au monde une transformation audacieuse et inspirante de l’espace en se servant des wagons du métro montréalais. L’événement inaugural, un mélange captivant d’art, de gastronomie et de musique, a démontré comment un lieu peut transcender sa fonction originale pour devenir un carrefour vibrant de la culture locale.

Les wagons du métro, transformés en espaces d’exposition sur les deuxième et troisième étages, ont offert une scénographie unique pour les œuvres d’art et de design. La fusion des lignes industrielles des voitures avec la créativité contemporaine a créé une atmosphère électrisante. Les visiteurs ont été invités à explorer 18 000 pieds carrés d’innovation artistique, où chaque pièce résonne avec le passé tout en s’ancrant dans le présent. Les installations de Studio Rat, notamment la pièce maîtresse Parachute, ont été particulièrement appréciées pour leur audace et leur profondeur.

Les deux formules de la soirée-bénéfice ont permis à la communauté de découvrir le complexe sous deux angles différents. La formule petite à 63 $, un clin d’œil astucieux au nom du complexe, a offert une immersion dans la musique avec la prestation de Qualité Motel, tout en permettant d’apprécier les expos de L’Arsenal et de se désaltérer avec des produits locaux en libre service. Les invités ont eu l’occasion de rencontrer les artistes et de discuter des œuvres exposées, favorisant ainsi un échange enrichissant entre créateurs et admirateurs.

La formule grande, à 363 $, a réservé un traitement royal avec une performance exceptionnelle de Klô Pelgag. Ce niveau de sophistication visait à attirer les donateurs et à renforcer les liens avec la communauté d’affaires, offrant une soirée mémorable marquée par un encan en ligne prestigieux.

L’événement a brillamment incarné la vision des cofondateurs : utiliser les wagons comme métaphore de connexion, unissant le passé, le présent et le futur dans un espace où chaque élément, du design à la gastronomie, célèbre l’essence de Montréal. Le complexe MR-63 se positionne ainsi non seulement comme un espace d’exposition, mais comme un lieu de rassemblement communautaire, un carrefour d’expériences sensorielles et une vitrine éclatante du talent local.

Le public est invité à découvrir ce lieu d’exception, où chaque visite est une célébration de la culture, de la créativité et de la convivialité montréalaises. Le complexe MR-63 est désormais prêt à écrire les prochains chapitres de l’histoire culturelle de la ville, tout en continuant à offrir une plateforme dynamique pour l’art et la gastronomie.

Pour la suite des activité MR-63 ICI

LENA GHIO   

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photos © LENA GHIO 2024

HEALING ANGEL

 

MORE INFO / PLUS D"INFOS

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video © LENA GHIO 2020

« Lunch pour tous » de Joël Legendre

Le lancement du nouveau livre de recettes de Joël Legendre, « Lunch pour tous », est une véritable célébration culinaire qui met à l'honneur l'art du déjeuner végétarien avec une touche de créativité et d'amour familial. Écrit en collaboration avec ses trois enfants, Lambert, Marion et Anaïs, ce livre est bien plus qu'une simple compilation de recettes. C'est un hommage à l'ingéniosité, à la diversité des saveurs et à l’importance de partager des repas faits maison, que ce soit en famille, en solo ou en duo.

La première impression que l'on a en feuilletant « Lunch pour tous » est celle d’une explosion de couleurs et de saveurs. Les photographies vibrantes du livre capturent parfaitement la fraîcheur et l’appétence des plats, nous plongeant dans un univers où chaque repas devient une fête. Lors du lancement au restaurant végé Resto VEGO sur Saint-Denis, les plats préparés à partir des recettes du livre ont été un véritable régal, confirmant la promesse d’un contenu aussi succulent que visuellement attrayant.

Le livre propose une variété impressionnante de recettes végétariennes, mais ne se limite pas aux seuls végétariens. Les options de substitution de viande, telles que les végé-poulets et végé-bacons, permettent à chacun de personnaliser les plats selon ses préférences. Cette flexibilité est un atout majeur, rendant le livre accessible non seulement aux adeptes du végétarisme, mais aussi à ceux qui souhaitent réduire leur consommation de viande sans compromettre le goût.

Les recettes de « Lunch pour tous » sont judicieusement conçues pour répondre aux besoins des familles modernes. Que vous cherchiez des idées de sandwichs et de soupes surprenantes en toutes saisons, des soupers de semaine pouvant se transformer en délices pour le lunch du lendemain, ou encore des salades de riz, de pâtes et de quinoa à la fois généreuses et nourrissantes, Joël Legendre a pensé à tout. Les propositions de tout-en-un colorés pour le thermos et les idées de brunch-lunch sont particulièrement ingénieuses, offrant des options à la fois pratiques et savoureuses pour égayer les pauses déjeuner.

Les petites gâteries et les collations étonnantes, quant à elles, ajoutent une dimension ludique et gourmande au livre. Elles sont la cerise sur le gâteau, parfaites pour clôturer un repas ou simplement pour satisfaire une petite faim de l’après-midi. Le livre ne se contente pas de nourrir ; il ravit les papilles et stimule l’imagination culinaire, encourageant les lecteurs à explorer de nouvelles saveurs et textures.

En somme, « Lunch pour tous » est un véritable trésor culinaire qui transforme la routine des repas en une aventure gustative. Joël Legendre, avec l'aide de ses enfants, a réussi à créer un ouvrage aussi inspirant qu’utile. Ce livre est une invitation à redécouvrir le plaisir des repas faits maison et à célébrer la diversité des saveurs végétariennes. Disponibles partout, ICI, les recettes de ce livre sont une excellente addition à toute cuisine, promettant des déjeuners variés, savoureux et sains pour tous les goûts et toutes les occasions. 

Pour plus d'infos: ICI

LENA GHIO   

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photos © LENA GHIO 2024

AT THE MOVIES

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THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO

In their latest adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic, Matthieu Delaporte and Alexandre de La Patellière deliver a stunning, emotionally satisfying adventure tale, grounded firmly in its rock-solid source material. This reimagining of "The Count of Monte Cristo" stands out from previous adaptations, including the overlong miniseries featuring Gérard Depardieu, with its brisk pacing and a truly stellar ensemble cast.

Pierre Niney’s mesmerizing portrayal of Edmond Dantès transforms the cinematic landscape with a performance that is nothing short of spectacular. His embodiment of Dantès’ descent into despair and subsequent rise from the ashes is both profound and captivating. Niney's ability to convey the emotional depth of his character adds a layer of intensity to the film, making it a feast for the eyes and the soul. The lavish production design, under the direction of Delaporte and de La Patellière, immerses viewers in a world of opulence and despair, enhancing the storytelling with visual splendor.

Supporting roles are compellingly filled by Bastien Bouillon and Laurent Lafitte, who provide significant counterpoints to Niney’s transformative lead. While the film occasionally falters with narrative shortcuts and a tendency to indulge in its visual flair, these are minor blemishes on an otherwise captivating exploration of obsession and redemption. The film’s grandiosity and its exploration of revenge feel particularly resonant in today’s climate of internecine conflicts and political grudges, echoing the timeless relevance of its themes.

Executed with the panache of a golden-era Hollywood epic, this adaptation might have easily competed for a Best Picture Oscar had it been released a few decades earlier. Meanwhile it won first prize, Cheval Noir for a feature film at this year's Fantasia Fest and who knows, maybe Oscar will give this exquisite film a nod. While French audiences are well-acquainted with Dumas’ tale, American viewers will find this version a refreshing and thrilling reinterpretation. It stands as a splendid update of the French classic, feeling both timeless and exhilaratingly new.

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THE BEAST WITHIN 

In "The Beast Within," director Alexander J. Farrell presents a chilling reimagining of the werewolf mythos that combines gothic atmosphere with intimate drama. Kit Harington, known for his role as Jon Snow in "Game of Thrones," takes on a more complex challenge as a father grappling with a sinister secret. His portrayal of a man whose nightly transformations into a monstrous entity cast a dark shadow over his family’s life is both compelling and haunting.

The film’s narrative revolves around a young girl, played by Caoilinn Springall, who begins to uncover the terrifying truth about her father's mysterious absences. As she witnesses unsettling changes in his behavior, including his return home covered in mud and blood, the tension escalates. This tension is exacerbated by the eerie setting of a secluded woodland manor, which feels more like a character in its own right, adding to the film’s atmospheric dread.

Farrell’s direction is notable for its minimalist approach to the genre. Rather than relying on overt horror elements, "The Beast Within" uses subtlety to build suspense. The cinematography and sound design work in tandem to create an unsettling ambiance that amplifies the emotional and psychological aspects of the story. The focus on Springall’s character Willow provides a fresh perspective on the classic werewolf tale, emphasizing the impact of her father's dual nature on her own experience.

While the film excels in its character-driven storytelling and atmosphere, it does encounter some pacing issues. The slow unfolding of the plot can occasionally detract from the overall tension. However, Farrell’s fresh take on lycanthropy, combined with Harington’s nuanced performance, delivers a thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of domestic strife and trauma. "The Beast Within" stands out for its introspective approach to the horror genre, offering a unique blend of psychological depth and supernatural intrigue.

On Digital NOW and on Blu-ray™ and DVD October 22

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BANKSY + MUTEK + VILLAGE NUMÉRIQUE

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Banksy Exhibition in Montreal Raises Eyebrows

A new exhibition titled "The Art of Banksy Without Limits" has opened in Montreal, sparking debate about its authenticity and alignment with the artist's known views. The show, which features over 40 "originals," are actually numbered prints, verified by Banksy's Pest Control Office. However, the vast majority of the exhibit is comprised of works by other artists imitating Banksy's style.

This raises a question mark, considering Banksy's career-long critique of consumerism and commercialization. The artist himself has explicitly stated his disapproval of commercial use of his work. Organizers, however, defend the exhibition as a way to spread awareness of Banksy's art and message. They point out that the show includes recreated murals by anonymous street artists, aiming to capture the essence of Banksy's public art.

The exhibition showcases some of Banksy's most iconic pieces, including the Pulp Fiction banana guns and the shopping-laden Jesus. These works retain their power to critique social and political issues. However, the question remains: does a commercially driven exhibition truly embody the spirit of an artist who actively shuns such practices?

The "Without Limits" title takes on an ironic twist, considering Banksy's fiercely independent approach to art. Whether this show celebrates or contradicts his legacy is a matter of interpretation. I do recommend you visit the exhibition that is very revealing on the elusive artist's trajectory and evolution that run parallel to life on Earth since the beginning of the 3rd millennium. 

Get your tickets and more info HERE

Cycles

MUTEK • A Symphony of Art and Sustainability /                  From August 20th to 25th, 2024

Montreal is set to become a canvas for innovation and environmental consciousness this August. MUTEK Montréal, celebrating its 25th anniversary, and Village Numérique are two distinct yet complementary events that showcase the city's commitment to pushing artistic boundaries while fostering a sustainable future.

MUTEK, a cornerstone of electronic music and digital art, is not only a platform for sonic exploration but also a catalyst for positive change. As the festival enters its quarter-century, it reinforces its dedication to minimizing environmental impact through partnerships with organizations like RECYC-QUÉBEC. By encouraging attendees to reduce waste, support local businesses, and embrace sustainable transportation, MUTEK is leading by example and inspiring a wave of eco-conscious actions.

Black Hole Experience

Beyond the music and sustainability initiatives, MUTEK offers an immersive artistic experience. From groundbreaking performances to captivating installations, the festival promises to transport audiences to new realms of sound and vision.The free outdoor stage, Expérience, featuring headliners like Octo Octa and Steffi, to name a few, is a testament to MUTEK’s commitment to making art accessible to all.

Complementing MUTEK is Village Numérique, a free open-air circuit showcasing 23 cutting-edge digital art installations. This event transforms the city into a mesmerizing nighttime playground, inviting visitors to explore interactive experiences that blend art and technology. Installations like the Black Hole Experience, a 53-foot mobile installation, offer a profound and thought-provoking experience, demonstrating the power of art to inspire introspection and connection.

Duetti Mobili

Together, MUTEK and Village Numérique create a synergy between art and sustainability. They invite audiences to engage with thought-provoking works while considering their impact on the environment. By attending these events, individuals become active participants in shaping a future where creativity and ecological responsibility coexist harmoniously.

Montreal’s commitment to fostering a thriving arts and culture scene while prioritizing environmental sustainability is evident in these two remarkable events. As the city lights up with digital wonder and the sounds of innovation, it’s a reminder that art and ecology can be powerful allies in creating a better world.

AND you will have the chance to party!!!!

 LENA GHIO   

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photos © LENA GHIO 2024

FANTASIA 2024 • Final Word and Publics Choice winners

 

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BOOKWORM TRAILER

Every year we who love FANTASIA FEST must choose from a large variety of films to see during the festival that goes by so fast. What that means is that I did not get to see all the films I wanted and did not report yet on others. So here is a look back that includes the winners of the People's Choice Awards in all categories.

BEST INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM

GOLD: BOOKWORM Director Ant Timpson, New Zealand

This is a heartwarming quirky movie about an amazing little girl reuniting with a father she had never met. “Bookworm” charms as a refreshing family adventure, showcasing the dynamic talents of director Ant Timpson and writer Toby Harvard. Their latest film, premiering at Fantasia Fest 2024, reunites them with Elijah Wood, who brilliantly swaps his “Lord of the Rings” persona for a more flawed, yet endearing, magician. Wood’s performance as Shawn Wise, a down-and-out illusionist, is both heartfelt and hilarious, especially when paired with the extraordinary Nell Fisher as his precocious daughter, Mildred.

Set against the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, “Bookworm” tells a captivating story of redemption and reconnection. When an unexpected emergency throws Shawn back into his daughter’s life, the film explores themes of forgiveness and familial bonds with both humor and sincerity. Fisher’s Mildred, a quick-witted and ambitious young girl with a knack for problem-solving, is a standout. Her journey to capture the elusive Canterbury Panther is a delightful mix of adventure and cleverness, making her a memorable heroine.

“Bookworm” is a testament to the magic of family films done right, combining scenic beauty, endearing performances, and a storyline that is both fun and meaningful. It’s a must-see for audiences of all ages and I loved it.

SILVER: THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO Directors Mathieu Delaporte and Alexandre de la Patelière, France

BRONZE: RATS! Directors Maxwell Navelansky and Carl Fry, United States

BEST ASIAN FEATURE FILM

GOLD: A SAMURAI IN TIME Director Junichi Yasuda, Japan SILVER: TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS : WALLED IN Director Soi Cheang, Hong Kong BRONZE: PENALTY LOOP Director Shinji Araki, Japan

BEST ANIMATION FEATURE FILM

GOLD: GHOST CAT ANZU  Directors Yōko Kuno and Nobuhiro Yamashita, Japan SILVER: THE MISSING Director Carl Joseph Papa, Philippines BRONZE: MONONOKE THE MOVIE : PHANTOM IN THE RAIN  Director Kenji Nakamura, Japan

BEST INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM

GOLD: FACES  Director Blake Simon, United States SILVER:  THE STREETLIGHT Director Sophia Parella, United States BRONZE: LES YEUX D’OLGA Director Sarah Carlot Jaber, Belgium

BEST ASIAN SHORT FILM

GOLD: MEMORY Director Jang Hawon, South Korea SILVER: WANNA DIE WANNA KILL Director Jeong Jaehee, South Korea BRONZE: NIGHT FISHING Director Byoung-gon Moon, South Korea

BEST ANIMATION SHORT FILM

GOLD: RUTHLESS BLADE Director Bo Zhang, China SILVER: LANTERN BLADE, EP 3 Director. Ziki Zhu, China BRONZE (TIE): THE BEASTS (Director. Michael Berry, United States) and GIANT FISH Director Si Seunghyun, South Korea

BEST CANADIAN FEATURE FILM

GOLD: SELF DRIVER Director Michael Pierro SILVER: THE SILENT PLANET Director Jeffrey St. Jules BRONZE: SCARED SHITLESS Director Vivieno Caldinelli

BEST CANADIAN SHORT FILM

GOLD: THE SHITTY RIDE Director Cole Doran SILVER: DIRTY BAD WRONG Director Erica Orofino BRONZE: BATH BOMB Director Colin G. Cooper

BEST QUEBEC FEATURE FILM

GOLD: KIDNAPPING INC Director Bruno Mourral SILVER: DAY OF THE HUNT Director Annick Blanc BRONZE: ABABOUINÉ Director André Forcier

BEST QUEBEC SHORT FILM

GOLD: THE IMAGE SELLER Director Donovan Richard SILVER: DIE IN SILENCE Director Émile Lavoie BRONZE: (TIE): REINSERTION Director Youssef Harouj and BRING BACK GUILLAUME Director Kevin de Laval

BEST DOCUMENTARY : VOIVOD: WE ARE CONNECTED Director Felipe Belalcazar, Canada

THE FANTASTIC SCREEN PRICE

THE BEAST WITHIN Director Alexander J. Farrell, United Kingdom

As part of the 2024 edition of the Fantasia festival, the L’Écran Fantastique prize is awarded to THE BEAST WITHIN, directed by Alexander J. Farrell. The film stands out from the rest by its extensive staging (something increasingly rare in current production), powerful images, full of details, which add to the neo-Gothic atmosphere of the natural settings. A work of art that deserves to be highlighted and encouraged. (Yves Rivard) NOTE: Now available on digital streaming service

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IT ENDS WITH US in theatres now/ JAMAIS PLUS au cinéma maintenant

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In "It Ends with Us," directed by Justin Baldoni, the 2016 bestseller by Colleen Hoover is brought to life with a tantalizing promise of romance intertwined with a poignant examination of domestic violence. With Blake Lively as Lily Bloom and Baldoni himself as Ryle Kincaid, the film aims to address this serious subject matter while delivering the emotional depth and realism it demands. However, despite its earnest intentions, the film falls short of achieving the profound impact it strives for.

The narrative begins on a note of promise. Lily Bloom, grappling with the recent death of her abusive father, meets Ryle Kincaid on a Boston rooftop. Their chance encounter leads to a whirlwind romance, a classic setup that blends the steamy and the dramatic. The chemistry between Lively and Baldoni is palpable in these early scenes, but as the story progresses, the film's potential begins to unravel.

One of the primary issues with "It Ends with Us" is its treatment of the central character, Lily. Lively’s performance, while competent, lacks the emotional depth necessary to fully engage with the character’s internal struggles. Lily is presented more as a vessel for the film’s themes rather than as a fully realized individual. Her journey from a hopeful flower shop owner to a victim of domestic violence is meant to be harrowing, but the portrayal feels hollow. The audience is told of her pain rather than shown it, which undermines the film's emotional gravity.

Ryle, played by Baldoni, is the archetypal charismatic yet troubled love interest. His portrayal of Ryle is initially magnetic, but as the character's darker traits emerge, the film struggles to maintain a nuanced depiction of his abusive tendencies. The transition from charming neurosurgeon to abusive partner is abrupt and lacks the subtlety needed to convey the complexities of such a transformation. Instead, Ryle's descent into violence feels more like a plot device than a deeply explored character arc.

The film's depiction of domestic violence is another area where it falters. While it successfully illustrates the insidious nature of abuse—how it can start subtly and escalate over time—the presentation often feels too on-the-nose. Key moments intended to shock or sadden come off as heavy-handed, detracting from the story’s authenticity. The scenes of violence are not portrayed with the sensitivity and nuance required to fully resonate with the audience. This leads to a portrayal that, while earnest, fails to evoke the deep emotional response necessary for a subject of this gravity.

Moreover, the film's visual and thematic elements are inconsistently developed. Set in a picturesque Boston, one would expect the setting to reflect the beauty and complexity of Lily’s emotional landscape. Instead, the film’s aesthetic choices, including the sparse depiction of flowers—symbolic of Lily’s profession and potential emotional solace—seem disjointed and underwhelming. This lack of visual allure detracts from the overall impact, leaving the film feeling more like a clinical portrayal rather than an evocative narrative experience.

In conclusion, "It Ends with Us" is a film that strives to blend romance with a critical social issue but ultimately fails to deliver the depth and nuance required for both. While it makes a commendable effort to address the complexities of domestic violence, its execution lacks the emotional resonance and character development necessary to fully engage its audience. The result is a film that is more informative than moving, leaving viewers with a sense of missed potential rather than a profound emotional connection.      

 LENA GHIO   

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