‘Endings, Beginnings’ – Review
Endings, Beginnings is the unconventional modern day love story we have all been waiting for.
Directed by Drake Doremus who co-authored this talented piece with Jardine Libaire, this film is sure to strike a chord with lovers and those who have lost love.
The flick follows Daphne (Shailene Woodley), a young woman who has just been hit by a perfect storm. In a week, she has broken up with her boyfriend, quit her job and moved into her sister’s pool house. Taking the terrifying plunge into being alone, you cannot help but relate to those achy moments when your heart yearns for another…at night, celebrations, New Years. Woodley’s realistic portrayal of heartbreak pulls the audience right into her self-proclaimed “suffer zone”. This is all until Daphne becomes caught in an intoxicating love triangle with Jack (Jamie Dornan) and Frank (Sebastian Stan). Prepare to be moved in this cathartic story of heartbreak, lust, love and self-discovery.
There are so many parts to this film worth noting. The cinematography, styling and dreamy soundtrack to name a few. The flick is shot in saturated colour reminiscent of the gritty texture of 70s film. A grainy quality that fits the integrity of the story, but also captures the dappled light that comes through as it progresses. It explores private moments with a touch of voyeurism. Mix this with rose petals, cigarettes and Daphne’s killer fashion. Think gorgeous shaggy hair, rainbow earrings and smokey liner characteristic of an artistic chick.
At the centre of all of this are brilliant performances by the leading trio. In a gripping portrayal, Woodley captures what it is like to be tangled up in new love, despite endeavouring to discover what it means to be alone. Torn between passion and romance, Daphne has a choice to make. The cheeky and reliable writer, Jack. Or will she get pulled in by Frank’s steamy and bad boy vibes? Dornan delivers an impressive performance as Jack, the kind of guy girls would love to love. Meanwhile, Stan equally captures an intriguing rebel as Frank.
As Daphne finds herself in a tumultuous and sticky relationship situation, we see her navigate modern dating culture and what this all means for her as she takes stock of where she is in her life. All of this is immersed in layered complexity as we see intrusive flashbacks of Daphne’s secret inner turmoil. But fret not. There is a method to the madness and this film leaves its audience on a hopeful note. It is clear that Doremus has hit success with this one. A story you could watch over and over again.
