All of Us Strangers

We all just want to be seen.

I dare to say that this movie is the most intimate and vulnerable film of the year so far.

Having seen Priscilla and Iron Claw – both deep character and human studies into various forms of trauma, familial issues, and mental health; I find that AOUS seems like a very different phenomenon, though sharing similar themes.

Paul Mescal and Andrew Scott’s on-screen compatibility is so clear in subsequent and promotional interviews, and maybe it’s got a lot to do with their obvious fondness, mutual admiration, respect and friendship. I believe that this chemistry is so palpable and genuine in the movie, because the two characters they portray are so similar in many ways.

They are both lonely people.

Their inner children have suffered and are still grieving.

They’re both gay, feel misunderstood, have profound family issues, live in the same apartment, and seemingly want more from their everyday lives.

Harry (Paul Mescal) is the more assertive of his desire for connection, and Adam (Andrew Scott) is hesitant and reticent, but only for a little while.

I found Claire Foy’s portrayal of Adam’s Mum, and Jamie Bell’s portrayal of his Dad, also so deeply affecting. In time for the Mardi Gras celebrations in Sydney, the themes of self-acceptance and courage in Adam coming out to his parents are so powerful and emotional.

The unconditional acceptance and compassion from Harry for Adam was just so beautiful to watch.
It was intimately beautiful.

Paul Mescal told Natalie Portman during their Actors-on-Actors Variety interview, that the character’s sex was ‘’healing’’, and I found this to be authentically true. There was a tenderness and sensuality, and a real affection between the two main characters during the physically intimate scenes. A lot of it also seemed and felt emotionally intimate, and this was present and irrevocable from the moment they meet each other face to face.

I don’t want to get into specific scenes to spoil the film’s viewing, but the two coinciding stories run parallel in a spectacular yet soft way. This is obvious in the sound editing, colour within scenes, cinematography, dialogue, and soundtrack. All diverse elements align to create an almost ethereal atmosphere, and what is often described as ‘’mysterious.’’

This is a truly poignant tale, and I remember hearing the crying from other audience members, before turning around to see the reaching for tissues. I’m aware that this is the common experience for audiences and in theatres worldwide. This movie is not loud or bold, but it’s brave and real in its storytelling.

All movies I choose to write a blog review on are examples of 'case studies' on the human condition, and this one might be the most intimate one of all so far….
Truly, watch and weep!