My Two Cents on Affair Movies
I have strong opinions about movies that deal with affairs. I am put off by settings and developments where the parties involved are eager from the start and everything feels too predictable. It is also off-putting when the people around them (even their spouses) go out of their way to egg them on, as it feels too convenient. I am also weary of the way they act like the protagonist of a tragedy while being selfish, wallowing in sentimental angst and brooding.
The conditions I require for a film to be accepted as an "affair movie" are whether I can be convinced of and empathize with the inevitability of falling in love, and whether I can feel that persuasiveness. Furthermore, it is important whether the stoic attitude of suppressing and enduring one's feelings to the fullest is conveyed. There should be humble self-restraint in a forbidden love, and cheap romantic games where they gaze at each other or flirt too easily are not worthy of the title "affair."
If I were to list the affair movies I approve of, the following works are reasonable choices, but this is my top recommendation.
"Doctor Zhivago" (1965, UK/US/Italy), directed by David Lean
It is a masterpiece of epic romance that depicts a man and a woman tossed about by the turbulent times against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution.
The lead character, Zhivago, and the heroine, Lara, are attracted to each other despite both having partners, but they return to their respective lives with adult discretion without ever touching. However, under the unstable social conditions, the two are led by the threads of fate to reunite and run away together, only to be torn apart forever afterward. It was a gem of a film where the dramatic development and the scenery of the frozen earth were burned into my mind, and the theme song brought tears to my eyes.
I believe this work is a masterpiece among masterpieces that impresses a film fan and critic like me, leaving me with a sublime lingering impression.
Other than that, here is a lineup of works I like.
"Brief Encounter" (1945, UK), directed by David Lean
The husband says to his wife, who has returned after parting with her affair partner, "You've been a long way." It is a conclusion where the husband's presence is highlighted for the first time, and one can breathe a sigh of relief.
"An Affair to Remember" (1957, US), directed by Leo McCarey
An adult love story that is fulfilled through a sincere and firm will to get one's life in order before reuniting. You can truly feel the comfort of a movie that has no villains.
"Falling in Love" (1984, US), directed by Ulu Grosbard
An unexpected treasure shown on a flight to New Zealand for my honeymoon. The process of longing growing, the affection that overflows even when suppressed, and the happy, tear-jerking final scene are all perfect.
"Somewhere in Time" (1980, US), directed by Jeannot Szwarc
A tragic love story that transcends time, starring Superman actor Christopher Reeve. I feel like it could have used one more twist or something a little extra.
"Moonstruck" (1987, US), directed by Norman Jewison
Starring the charismatic singer Cher and a young Nicolas Cage. It is a fine romantic comedy that fully displays the charm of each. Veteran actress Olympia Dukakis, who co-stars, is excellent, and the subtleties of the female heart make me dizzy.
At first, Cher, with no makeup and messy hair, transforms into a stunningly sharp and beautiful woman for her big date. Of course, this is Cher at her best, but the way she upgrades herself is a must-see.
Slightly off-topic, but "Mask," in which Cher played the mother of a son with a rare disease, was a moving human drama. While keeping her flashy and free-spirited image, her portrayal of a strong-willed mother who loves her son deeply made my tear ducts loosen.
Also, the chaotic atmosphere of "Mermaids" was full of Cher's personality and wasn't bad, but the tone of the story itself is a bit off-putting.
"Moonstruck" seems to be a story about an Italian-American family, and the trivial, pathetic behavior and laughable absurdity unfold with good pacing, incorporating elements of an ensemble drama.
In the end, the ease with which everything works out has the feel of a grand finale where everything can be forgiven, resulting in a very satisfying happy ending.
That covers the affair movies I highly recommend you experience.
Next time, I would like to write about the movies and TV shows I watched with my younger brother while visiting home.