Watch Around the Sun

Around the Sun is a thought-provoking and meditative drama film from 2019, directed by Oliver Krimpas. The movie follows the stories of two strangers, Bernard (Gethin Anthony) and Louise (Cara Theobold), who meet by chance at a hotel and spend a day exploring a secluded estate in Provence, France. As they wander through the estate, Bernard, an English writer, shares his knowledge of astronomy with Louise, a young woman who is skeptical of his convictions. As the day goes by, their conversations delve deeply into their own lives and relationships, and they begin to connect on a deeper level.

The two characters are complex and well-developed, with both actors delivering strong and nuanced performances. Bernard is a man who is deeply passionate about science and astronomy, but who also carries a profound sadness due to his troubled past. Louise, on the other hand, is a fiercely independent woman who is struggling to come to terms with her own vulnerabilities and insecurities.

What sets Around the Sun apart from other films is its unique structure. The entire movie takes place over the course of a single day, with each scene taking place in chronological order as the characters move through the estate. The camera work is also notable, with the cinematography focusing on long, sweeping shots of the beautiful French countryside.

The film is more than just a love story. It is a meditation on the nature of time, space, and human connections. At its core, Around the Sun is about finding meaning in life and embracing the beauty of the world around us. The estate serves as a metaphor for the vastness of the universe, with Bernard and Louise representing the human desire to understand our place within it.

One of the central themes of the movie is the idea of the human experience as a fleeting moment in the vast expanse of time and space. Bernard is especially sensitive to this, as he sees the stars as a reminder of how small and insignificant we are in the grand scheme of things. However, Louise is more grounded in the present moment, more interested in experiencing life as it happens than in worrying about the implications of her existence.

Throughout the day, the characters continue to learn more about each other and themselves. They share intimate conversations about their fears, their pasts, and their dreams for the future. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, with their exchanges feeling natural and effortless.

As the day comes to an end, Bernard and Louise are faced with a choice. Should they stay and explore the estate further, or return to their own lives? The movie ends on an ambiguous note, leaving the audience to draw their own conclusions about what the characters will ultimately decide. Some may find this ending frustrating, but others will appreciate the open-endedness of it.

Overall, Around the Sun is a beautiful and introspective film that is well worth watching. It may not be for everyone, as the slow pace and heavy focus on philosophical discussion may be off-putting to some viewers, but for those who enjoy a more thoughtful and meditative viewing experience, this movie is a hidden gem.