I don't believe in love but this movie made me doubt. And that is for me a reason good enough to put in the category of art. Because art is there to disturb, to make us doubt, feel and verify.
But there is more. This movie is a game changer in so strongly influenced by Hollywood scene of love stories. It's nothing like productions from Hollywood on both formal (hand-held shooting at moments, long still close-ups) and storyline level.
There is no drama so typical for American movies (fighting, shouting, cheating on each other, etc.) and the problems it deliberates on are very different from those which American cinematography loves to identify and explore. Those problems are actually difficult to identify and work on. And even though they seem infantile, so does the way characters react to them, two main characters display unexpected maturity in how they try to deal with them, how they talk to each other, in a calm manner, always willing to actively listen. Thanks to that, even though the movie is harsh as the relationship between the lovers is not an easy one, it evokes peace, is soothing to watch. Watching Mika and Tesfay being so wise and understanding towards each other gives us a chance to reflect on the world around with better understanding and concord.
People play games, especially when it comes to romantic life. We know that and Hollywood productions don't let us forget. Metelius shows us in her movie that choosing to act differently is possible. Being open and frank doesn't necessarily mean we will get hurt. Being authentic doesn't makes us vulnerable. And being vulnerable won't cause us pain. On the contrary, it all is a key to break ourselves free.
Do not watch the trailer though as it's like of an another movie.
