A romantic film that will have you at the edge of your seat? Yes it exists. The One I Love, directed by first time director Charlie McDowell, defies genre.
It starts off as an ordinary love story between Sophie (Elisabeth Moss) and Ethan (Mark Duplass) who go to therapy to try and save their sinking marriage. Their therapist (Ted Danson) sends them on an isolated couple’s retreat where things start to go awry. The film has a satisfying ending left for the viewer to interpret.
The One I Love can be considered a comedy-drama with a plot-twist so surreal, you’ll think you’re watching an episode of The Twilight Zone. It takes talent to break the rules of filmmaking but it takes even greater talent to actually make it successful.
The independent film premiered at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival where it received riveting reviews. Both McDowell and screenwriter Justin Lader (who also makes his feature film debut) developed such a realistic depiction of human relationships through natural and honest dialogue. The film heavily relies on Moss and Duplass who provide compelling performances. It’s as though the characters were written to be able to connect with everyone who watches.
The film explores various themes but mainly dives into what happens in the beginning of relationships and how it evolves throughout the years. Would you rather spend your life happy with a flawless yet false version of your partner or face the truth that will make you unhappy at times?
With a smart yet simple concept, giving any more detail would truly be a crime. It’s a movie that you just have to see without knowing anything about it. It’s the kind of film you’ll remember for a long time. It’s a movie you will be able to call the one you love.
