MOVIE REVIEW
Slow
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Genre: Drama, Romance
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 48m
Director(s): Marija Kavtaradze
Writer(s): Marija Kavtaradze
Cast: Greta Grinevičiūtė, Kęstutis Cicėnas, Pijus Ganusauskas, Laima Akstinaitė, Vaiva Zymantaite, Mantas Barvicius, Rimantė Valiukaitė, Ugnė Šiaučiūnaitė, Mantas Stabacinskas
Language: Lithuanian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: opens at IFC Center in New York on May 3, 2024, and at Laemmle Royal in LA on May 10; for more information, visit www.kimstim.com

RAVING REVIEW: SLOW delivers a touching narrative that dives deep into the essence of connection on a level beyond the physical. The film crafts the story of Elena (Greta Grinevičiūtė,) an enthusiastic dancer, and Dovydas (Kęstutis Cicėnas,) a contemplative sign language interpreter whose unconventional romance challenges the standard love story mold. This film captures the audience's heart and opens minds to the beautiful complexities of human relationships.

In SLOW, director Marija Kavtaradze marries the slow-paced evolution of a relationship with the thoughtful, lyrical inspiration of Leonard Cohen's song Slow. The film's narrative rhythm meticulously reflects the careful unfolding of the couple's bond, emphasizing patience and depth—a rare find in today’s fast-paced cinematic landscape.

Set in the context of Elena’s dance lessons for deaf students, SLOW effectively uses its setting, aligning the protagonists’ professional lives with their journeys in the film. This provides a powerful backdrop and cleverly parallels their connections—her expressive dance and his through the silent yet profound language left unspoken. This dual focus on their careers enriches the story, allowing the film to explore the theme of communication on multiple levels.

The film stands out for its portrayal of Dovydas's asexuality, presenting it not as a marginal trait but as a central element of the storyline. This choice brings a rarely-seen aspect of human sexuality into the spotlight, challenging the audience to broaden their understanding of what they may consider romantic roles. SLOW navigates this theme with dignity and depth, steering clear of the typical clichés and stereotypes, thus allowing for a dynamic exploration of the characters’ individualities and mutual journeys.

SLOW also tackles societal misconceptions about asexuality with a sensitive and enlightening approach. By depicting Dovydas as a fully realized character whose asexuality is just one aspect of his complex persona, the film encourages viewers to see asexuality as a form of human expression and not just a label.

The narrative crescendos in a beautifully choreographed scene that uses dance and non-verbal communication to underscore the story's emotional stakes. This powerful use of physical storytelling highlights the unique ways individuals can connect without words, pushing the boundaries of traditional cinematic storytelling.

Ultimately, SLOW is a poignant exploration of love’s multifaceted nature. It challenges conventional storytelling by presenting a romance that respects the complexities of its characters and celebrates the diversity of human connections. Director Kavtaradze’s vision ensures that the film not only discusses asexuality but paints a broader picture of what it means to love and be loved in all its forms.

SLOW is a standout piece that resonates with anyone looking for depth and authenticity in the representation of relationships on screen. It’s a heartfelt testament to the power of film to explore and celebrate the intricate tapestry of human connections, making it a must-watch for those who cherish the beauty of a love that transcends conventional boundaries.

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[photo courtesy of KITSTIM FILMS]

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