WatchSeeLookView At The LFF 2019 - Ema

We’re in to the homestretch now - it’s the last day and one last blitz; I managed to pack in four screenings on the last day to finish.

Ema
Dir. Pablo Larraín / Dur. 102 mins / Country. Chile
Festival Strand:- Festival Gala
In A Nutshell:- A dancer and her choreographer husband struggle with the fallout of their failed adoption attempt.

The Good:- It’s a fascinating film dealing with a complex web of relationships spun by main character Ema (Mariana Di Girolamo) as she attempts to find a way to deal with and come back into contact with the adopted son that was taken away from her. She’s a screwed up character and this film would also fit into the bracket of unconventional romances given the tangled set of relationships she navigates and manipulates. The film very much belongs to Mariana Di Girolamo who owns the screen throughout - she is never less than fascinating to watch. The film is elevated as well by the brightness and liveliness of the dance sequences weaved throughout, adding a vibrant and colourful feel to the film.

The Bad:- I was unconvinced by some of the characters reaction to revelations towards the end of the film and am not 100% sure about the ending but it’s a minor gripe.

The Verdict:- A fascinating and tangled character study of damaged personalities with a bright and vibrant dance element that lifts it up.

The Venue / Intro / Q&A:- At the Embankment Garden Cinema for this and all the remaining films. A very brief introduction from Mariana Di Girolamo, looking almost unrecognisable without the bleach blonde hair of Ema.