MOVIE REVIEW
Complications (Komplikasjoner)
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Genre: Drama, Thriller, Comedy, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 14m
Director(s): Ivar Aase
Writer(s): Erik Ivar Sæther
Cast: Anna Ladegaard, Sven Henriksen
Language: Norwegian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: North American premiere at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival, www.slamdance.com

RAVING REVIEW: Under Ivar Aase's direction, COMPLICATIONS is more than the sum of its parts. It's an immersive experience that drags you into the depths of digital-age “relationships.” The movie blends the professional with the personal, blurring the lines between the online and offline worlds. In this film, emotions aren't just depicted; they are painted across the screen, making each moment an integral part of a larger narrative about contemporary love and connectivity. It wasn’t until I wrote my review that I learned this was the second film in a proposed trilogy (with the third film already being worked on.) I haven’t checked out the first film, titled TRANSACTIONS, but I can’t wait to after the festival.

Anna Ladegaard, in her portrayal of Lotte, a webcam dominatrix, is a revelation. Her performance is a delicate tightrope walk between vulnerability and control, infusing her character with a rare depth and complexity. Ladegaard's Lotte is not just a character to observe; she's someone you instinctively root for, a testament to Ladegaard's acting prowess.

Aase introduces a novel perspective on online relationships in COMPLICATIONS. His past interactions with real-life cam models and online friends lend an authentic flavor to the narrative, revealing the often-overlooked depth of emotion behind digital screens. One of the most impressive aspects of the film is how grounded it feels; the reality that allows sex workers to be looked at as people instead of objects can’t be overstated enough!

The casting decisions in COMPLICATIONS are nothing short of inspiring. The interactions, especially between characters of vastly different ages, bring a tangible realism to the story. This approach ensures the film's relationship on screen is believable and rooted in reality, even when they venture into unconventional realms.

The visual storytelling, a collaborative effort between Aase and cinematographer Kim-André Aspen, is striking. They juxtapose the confined physical space of the protagonist with the expansive and dynamic world of her online interactions. This visual dichotomy does more than please the eye; it is a compelling tool, highlighting the stark differences between Lotte's online persona and her real-world solitude.

COMPLICATIONS takes viewers on an emotionally charged journey, blending edgy and tender moments with just the right amount of laughter. The film addresses the intricacies of human connections in the digital era, encouraging viewers to see beyond superficial digital interactions and recognize our shared humanity. Combining Aase's visionary direction and Ladegaard's mesmerizing performance elevates COMPLICATIONS to a profound exploration of intimacy and our innate desire for meaningful connections.

COMPLICATIONS is a thought-provoking and inspiring journey. It showcases the power of film to venture into uncharted territories of storytelling, particularly in the digital space. Aase and Ladegaard have created something exceptional, a film that resonates with the heart and mind. It's an essential watch for anyone intrigued by the ever-changing landscape of human connections and stands as a shining example of innovative filmmaking.

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[photo courtesy of AASE & WIIG AS]

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