A Single Man

 

A Single Man (2009)

Netflix description:

This stream-of-consciousness, 1960s-era drama centers on a day in the life of George Falconer (Colin Firth), an English-born, Los Angeles college professor reeling from the recent death of his lover of 16 years.

I really enjoyed this film.  I liked the rumination on what life is about and why we’re here and the subtle focus on what we don’t say in our daily life – e.g. the main character is telling people sincere things that he normally wouldn’t because he thinks it will be the last time he’ll see them. 

Living in the past is also an ever-present topic. Why can’t we move forward and forget the past?  Is it worth living now without the things in the past that were good?

Visually the movie was very appealing as well.  The shot outside the liquor store is exemplary with the young, Spanish guy (as in from Madrid) and the mural and the setting sun – it was very sensual.  The whole film had a lush feel but a focus that was both crisp and foggy at the same time.

Probably many will disagree, but I think the best actor Oscar should have gone to Colin Firth instead of Jeff Bridges. His performance was so complex with really very little dialogue.