Lithuania's Oscars nominee: an electrifying physical drama about asexuality and the difference between intimacy and sex
Elena is a contemporary dance teacher and a woman who is open both emotionally and sexually. Dovydas is a modest sign language interpreter who came to assist her with a group of hearing-impaired dancers. Literally, during their very first stroll through the streets of Vilnius, a romantic connection quickly and naturally emerges between them. When a guy suddenly confesses to his asexuality, the couple seemingly agrees to accept and respect each other's needs. However, the more Elena and Davidas become intertwined with each other, the more sacrifices and compromises are revealed in their relationship, and they are not both willing to commit to all of them. Delicate and, true to its title, measured, shot on grainy film, and with intimate close-ups, Marija Kavtaradze's drama (her debut film “Summer Survivors” was screened at Northern Lights in 2019) offers an unusual perspective on sexuality, physicality, and romantic relationships. The film was awarded The Directing Award in the World Cinema Dramatic section of the 2023 Sundance Film Festival.
Original language: Lithuanian Subtitles: Belarusian | English