Everytime, Sandra Wollner's latest cinematic offering, is a thought-provoking exploration of grief and its impact on a family. The film, with its subtle yet powerful storytelling, takes viewers on a journey through the aftermath of a young woman's death, leaving them with a profound sense of unease and a lingering question: Is the solution to their grief too good to be true?
The movie begins by introducing a seemingly ordinary family: Ella, a divorced mother, and her two daughters, Jessica and Melli. The initial 20 minutes set the stage for a typical family drama, but this is where the film's true nature starts to reveal itself. As the story progresses, Jessica's death becomes the catalyst for a deep exploration of human behavior and the complexities of grief.
What sets Everytime apart is its unique approach to storytelling. Wollner masterfully uses ellipses to jump between different time periods, focusing on the characters' reactions to Jessica's death. This technique adds a layer of intrigue, making it challenging to discern the exact cause of Jessica's demise. The director's interest lies not in providing a definitive answer but in capturing the emotional aftermath and the characters' attempts to cope.
The film's strength lies in its ability to portray genuine unease in everyday situations. Whether it's a mundane stroll through Berlin, a text message to a deceased loved one, or a surreal trip to the Canary Islands, Wollner creates a sense of unease that lingers throughout. The rich and detailed widescreen cinematography, reminiscent of Angela Schanelec's work, enhances the overall atmosphere, making the ordinary feel unsettling.
However, the film's two-hour runtime and lack of a sustained narrative might leave some viewers yearning for more. Hitchcock's famous quote, 'Some films are slices of life, mine are slices of cake,' could be applied here. Everytime teases at the complexities of grief and the conflicts within the family, but it may not provide enough 'cake' to satisfy all viewers. The giant twist ending, while intriguing, arrives too late, leaving some questions unanswered.
The third act, set at a seaside resort in Tenerife, is where the film takes a truly unexpected turn. Here, the bizarre resonances between past and present, everyday reality, and virtual reality (through a Minecraft-style game) begin to serve a purpose. The solution to the family's grief is revealed, but it is so surreal that it challenges logic. The closing scenes, staged with disquieting aplomb, add a layer of mystery and meaning to the chronicle of a family struggling to come to terms with a devastating loss.
In my opinion, Everytime is a thought-provoking and understated drama that showcases Wollner's talent for capturing the intricacies of human behavior in the face of tragedy. While it may not be for everyone, its unique approach to storytelling and its ability to leave a lasting impression make it a must-watch for those seeking a profound cinematic experience.
