- Date of Release: 10 June 2024
- Genre: Drama
- Language: Spanish
- Watch On: Tribeca Film Festival
Dont You Let Me Go
Introduction
One of the harshest truths of life is that nothing lasts for ever. Yet, often we sit back on a rainy afternoon sipping our tea while reminiscing the good times and the memories that were created. It was in 2022 that a beautifully melancholic film Aftersun was released, that had a central character reminisce about the good times that she had shared with her father, knowing fully well that the good ol’ times aren’t coming back(and neither is her father). In that regard, the Spanish film Don’t Let Me Go is a spiritual descendant of that film, that tackles grief in a rather bittersweet manner. It is meditative yet cathartic, almost imaginative in its approach unfolding in a place far from the current reality of the characters. But then does Don’t You Let Me Go which is a part of our Tribeca Film Festival coverage, manage to impress, let’s find out.
Story & Screenplay
Don’t You Let Me Go follows the story of Adela who has just lost her best friend Elena. Grieving uncontrollably, she travels back in time to reminisce the beautiful weekend that she spent with Elena at a house near the beach. The story here begins as an episode of grief with the early loss of a character that we know very little about. Yet, the drama which is divided into 3 chapters(representing the three acts), unfolds like a breath of fresh air that may not necessarily have a hook in the writing, but it is enough to surrender completely to the characters and their actions, even as you witness them in happier times. The screenplay standing at just 70 odd minutes is a timely reminder that nothing lasts forever, and only thing that is fleetingly available are memories – originating from a wharf of perfume, or certain things that transport you to happier times. This bittersweet aspect of life is life itself which is a roller coaster of emotions that balance out the two binary emotions of happiness and grief.
The drama begins with the introduction of key principal characters grieving the loss of their beloved one. The setting is of a funeral wherein people begin to pour in, even if they may or may not be close to the deceased. And this sentiment is perfectly captured, even as a few guests inquire about the ‘cross’ while others briefly discuss the attire of an attendee. Amidst this, you see one character silent also pretending to be normal while briefly shedding a tear or two. You could make out that the character has been carrying a huge emotional baggage of sorts, even though there is no context provided about her or her friend whom she has lost. In a scene following the funeral, you see Adela breaking down in one of the moments where she has been left behind even as her friend has passed on to the higher astrals. This moment of sadness soon transports her to a cathartic journey of the past featuring her bestie Elena in happier times.
The writing doesn’t have a hook in the screenplay here which basically means that you are privy to two characters going through fragmented parts of their lives. The setting is of a beach which probably is a weekend getaway prior to which you get to know about how inseparable the two characters have turned out to be over a period of time. What follows is a bittersweet tale of nostalgia with an undercurrent of grief simply because you as a viewer are aware of the reality of Adela. Each ounce of happiness and laughter intricately pierces your heart only for grief to take over, even as the writers allow you to be a fly on the wall during their weekend getaway. There is another character which joins in, and you can instantly make out the warmth that the trio share. And even as there are episodic challenges which are overcome, you could sense that none of the characters were ready for the eventual calamity that would strike them. The screenplay ends on such a bittersweet note of a song playing on, with the trio standing beside each other. The only sad part being that neither this song would ‘Go On Forever’ and neither would their bond(separated by life and death). Overall, the screenplay is well penned and makes for a bittersweet watch.
Dialogues, Music & Direction
The dialogues are surprisingly playful with subtle bouts of humour that keeps the melancholy in check throughout the narrative. The BGM is sparingly used, often allowing the unfolding drama to take centerstage. The cinematography captures some glorious shots of the outdoors of Uruguay with a lazy vibe accompanying the narrative in the second and third acts. Boy, life was good then wasn’t it? The editing is crisp and sharp even as the drama doesn’t overstay its welcome. Directors Leticia Jorge and Ana Guevara have done an excellent job in capturing the bittersweet vibes of the drama that almost unfolds like a catharsis of grief. The emotions are beautifully captured so much so that you are thoroughly invested in the drama. The direction is excellent here.
Performances
The performances are excellent by all cast members. Eva Dans as Luci has her moments to shine in an amazing job done. Victoria Jorge as Elena is natural to the core and engulfs the narrative with her happy vibe. She is excellent and really affable with her act. Chiara Hourcade as Adela delivers a rather heartfelt performance so much so that you are emotionally invested in her journey of grief. Yet, she carries a warm vibe in the second and third acts that makes you want to embrace her, knowing her fate. She was excellent in the film.
Conclusion
As a part of our Tribeca Film Festival coverage, Don’t You Let Me Go is a meditative and cathartic take on grief and loss that makes for a melancholic watch that is heartfelt in many ways. Highly Recommended!
